Fireworks and Pets: Safety Tips and UK Legal Regulations

As the fireworks season approaches with bonfire night, Diwali and New Year’s Eve it’s a time of year many families and friends look forward to and enjoy a get together. However for others that have pets the fireworks can provoke feelings of anxiety worrying about how their dog will cope with the sudden explosions and flashes that can leave some terrified, injured or at risk of escaping.

Keeping Calm And Planning Ahead

Owners should walk dogs before displays begin, keep them indoors once fireworks start and provide a quiet retreat with familiar bedding and toys. Doors, windows, gates and fencing should be secured, as frightened dogs may try to bolt and microchip details should also be checked and updated in case they do.

Dogs may hide, shake, bark, pant or pace. Severe fear can drive them through doors, gates or fences. The RSPCA says almost two-thirds of dog owners who responded to its 2025 fireworks poll reported that their pets had been negatively affected.

Closing curtains and windows, playing music or leaving the television on may help mask some of the noise.

Owners should remain calm and never punish a frightened dog. If a pet chooses to hide, it should be allowed to do so.

Owners of dogs that become particularly distressed should speak to a vet before fireworks season. A vet can advise on behavioural support and, where appropriate, treatment options. Prescription medicines should only be used under veterinary direction.

What Does The Law Say?

Firework rules differ across the UK and depend on the type of firework, where it is used and whether it is being used by the public or a professional organiser.

In England, Scotland and Wales, consumer fireworks may generally be set off between 7am and 11pm. The permitted period extends to midnight on Bonfire Night and to 1am on New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year. These restrictions apply to private and organised displays.

It is an offence to possess or use fireworks in the street or another public place. Fireworks must also be used in accordance with other safety and nuisance laws. Local authorities may impose additional restrictions, so organisers should check local requirements.

The sale and supply of fireworks are subject to age restrictions and licensing rules. In general, people under 18 must not be supplied with adult fireworks. Some low-hazard Category F1 products, including party poppers and certain sparklers, are treated differently, with age limits depending on their classification.

Category F4 fireworks are intended for professional use and must not be supplied to the general public. Members of the public may generally buy Category F2 and F3 fireworks from authorised retailers, subject to the relevant age, sale and use requirements.

The rules are different in Northern Ireland, where a fireworks licence is generally required to possess, use, handle or supply fireworks, although limited exceptions apply. The time restrictions in England, Scotland and Wales should not be assumed to apply there.

Anyone planning to use fireworks in Northern Ireland should check the latest Department of Justice guidance and apply for any required licence in advance. Using fireworks without the necessary permission may be an offence.

Proposed Changes

There is no general UK-wide ban on private fireworks solely because they may frighten pets. Subject to the rules above, private displays remain lawful in the relevant parts of the UK.

The Government has discussed possible restrictions on the loudest fireworks because of their impact on people, pets and wildlife. However, an announcement, consultation or proposal does not change the law. Any restriction would need to be formally approved and brought into force before becoming legally binding.

Owners and organisers should check the latest official guidance before buying or using fireworks, particularly because rules differ across the UK and may change.

Being a thoughtful neighbour helps and would be appreciated by the pet owner if someone is planning a get together that includes fireworks to let them know in advance so the owner can prepare.

All pets can become frightened by fireworks cats should be kept indoors and a comfortable hiding place provided, put pet rabbits and guinea pigs in a secure sheltered area with extra bedding and familiar food, horses should be kept in a safe secure area with plenty of hay and company if possible.