The Hidden Impact of Fireworks on Our Animals

While humans enjoy the spectacle of fireworks lighting up the night sky, our beloved animals experience something entirely different. The anticipation and excitement we feel transforms into terror and overwhelm for many dogs and cats.

The random nature of fireworks that thrills us becomes a source of extreme anxiety for our animal companions. The loud bangs, screaming sounds, and whistles that echo across neighbourhoods trigger fight-or-flight responses in animals who cannot understand or anticipate these sudden explosions.

How Many Animals Are Affected by Firework Anxiety?

An estimated 50% of dogs and cats in the UK are scared of fireworks. This staggering statistic represents millions of animals struggling with noise sensitivities during firework season.

According to a Kennel Club survey, up to 80% of dog owners noticed behavioural changes in their dogs when hearing fireworks. With multiple celebration dates throughout the year - including Bonfire Night, New Year's Eve, and various festivals - our animals face extended periods of stress and anxiety.

Why Are Dogs and Cats More Affected Than Humans?

Superior Hearing Capabilities

Understanding animals hearing helps explain their intense reactions to fireworks:

• Dogs can hear sounds up to 4 times further away than humans
• Cats can detect an extremely wide range of frequencies and the quietest of sounds

This means our animals hear many more bangs than we do, detecting additional layers of sound within each explosion that remain completely inaudible to human ears.

Modern Fireworks Are Louder and More Frequent

Fireworks have evolved dramatically over the past 40 years. Today's fireworks are:

• Significantly louder than traditional displays
• Used more frequently throughout the year
• More powerful and explosive

What was once limited to one or two nights annually has expanded to multiple celebrations, prolonging the anxiety period for sensitive animals.

Signs Your Dog or Cat Is Scared of Fireworks

As an animal communicator and healer, I've worked with countless animals experiencing firework phobia. Here are the most common experiences they communicate:

Physical Symptoms

• Headaches and pressure sensations
• Nausea
• Disorientation
• Panting and sweating
• Trembling

Emotional Responses

• Total overwhelm and mental exhaustion
• Intense fear and shock
• Feeling threatened and vulnerable
• Complete disconnection from surroundings
• Inability to receive comfort
• Confusion

Behavioural Signs

• Running and hiding
• Pacing continuously
• Vocalising (whining, barking, meowing)
• Refusing food and water
• Inappropriate urination or defecation
• Digestive upsets
• Aggression (biting or scratching)
• Inconsolable behaviour
• Going into survival mode

For affected animals, their entire world is turned upside down. Many feel that nowhere is safe and experience an overwhelming desire to escape.

How to Help Your Dog or Cat During Firework Season

Be Prepared and Plan Ahead

1) Preparation is crucial for reducing animal firework anxiety:

• Research local firework displays to know when they'll occur
• Create safe spaces with familiar bedding and toys
• Adjust routines by walking and feeding animals earlier
• Stock up on treats and calming toys
• Choose relaxing music to mask firework sounds
• Close curtains to reduce visual stimulation

2) Learn Animal Communication Techniques

Understanding your animal's anxiety through animal communication can transform how you support them.

• Recognise subtle signs of anxiety
• Communicate reassurance effectively
• Help anxious animals feel calmer
• Strengthen the bond during stressful times

3) Seek advice from a Holistic expert

Multiple options are available for animals with severe firework anxiety:

• Book an Animal Communication or Applied Zoopharmacognosy session to understand your animal's specific needs
• Plan to have a healing session designed specifically for firework-anxious animals

You're Not Alone

The awareness of how fireworks affect animals has increased enormously in recent years, meaning more support than ever exists for animals and their guardians.

If your animal suffers from firework anxiety, remember that millions of animals experience the same fear and preparation can significantly reduce stress.

Don't hesitate to reach out for support to make fireworks season more manageable for your beloved companion.