The UK Government has launched a consultation into the use of loud fireworks outside organised displays.
The RSPCA has welcomed the move and is now calling on pet owners and animal lovers to respond.
David Bowles OBE, the charity’s Head of Public Affairs, said,
“We are thrilled by this major step forward from the UK Government.”
He added,
“We now urge pet owners and animal lovers across England and Wales to act now and give their voice to this consultation and help ensure safer and more responsible use of fireworks.”
Impact on animals
The RSPCA says pets, horses, wildlife and farmed animals have been affected for years by fireworks let off without regulation, including DIY and impromptu displays.
Mr Bowles said,
“For too long now, pets, horses, wildlife and farmed animals have been deeply affected by the impact of fireworks and the lack of regulation – including from DIY and impromptu displays.”
Dogs and horses can suffer tinnitus, hearing loss and long-term hearing damage, according to the charity.
Mr Bowles said,
“Animals such as dogs and horses can suffer from tinnitus, hearing loss and long-term hearing damage caused by fireworks, while all animals can experience stress and fear – which has in some instances lead to injury and even death.”
He said livestock and other animals kept outdoors often try to escape the noise out of fear, sometimes injuring themselves in the process.
Public support for restrictions
The RSPCA says the public has backed restrictions on fireworks for some time, citing its own figures.
Mr Bowles said,
“We’ve known for some time that the public support restrictions – 66% of pet owners* found backyard fireworks displays to be a major concern – but regulation has lagged behind for too long, so this is a really positive step forward.”
Years of campaigning
The charity has campaigned for stricter firework rules for years, pushing for more responsible use and better preparation among animal owners.
It runs an annual Bonfire Night radio programme with Classic FM called Pet Classic, aimed at calming animals during displays, and has released neighbourhood toolkits under the banner Kind Sparks.
The RSPCA is also a member of the Fireworks Impact Coalition, a group of 19 organisations representing both human and animal welfare interests affected by fireworks.
Mr Bowles said,
“This campaign has never been about spoiling people’s fun, but only ever about protecting animals, together – and this new UK Government consultation has the potential to be a game changer for animals.”
Call to respond
The RSPCA is now asking supporters to take part in the consultation before it closes.
Mr Bowles said,
“We now have an amazing opportunity to give animals a voice by rallying all those who care about animals to respond to the consultation and show their support for these long-awaited restrictions, and a better world for every kind.”
Respond to the consultation
You can respond to the consultation by visiting the website.
