Pets at Home survey finds 77% of UK pets stressed by fireworks

Seventy-seven percent of pets in the United Kingdom experience stress or anxiety during firework season, according to a survey of 2,000 pet owners conducted by Pets at Home. The retailer’s data indicates that the sudden noise and bright lights disrupt the routine of the majority of domestic animals, from dogs and cats to rabbits and guinea pigs.

The survey reveals that the disruption extends far beyond November 5. Thirty-five percent of owners report hearing fireworks at least every two to three days during October, a figure that rises to 64 percent in November. Additionally, 48 percent of respondents said fireworks continue after 11 p.m., and 14 percent reported noise persisting until after 1 a.m.

Pets at Home’s data ranks Manchester as the most challenging city for pets during the firework period. Owners in Manchester reported hearing fireworks on an average of 18 nights in November, the highest frequency among the cities surveyed. In that city, 36.7 percent of owners heard fireworks after midnight, and 75.9 percent reported their pets showing signs of distress.

Nottingham ranked second in the overall assessment, driven by high levels of reported anxiety. Eighty-two point eight percent of Nottingham owners reported signs of stress or anxiety in their animals. Leeds placed third, with owners reporting fireworks on an average of 16 nights in November. Glasgow recorded the highest proportion of pets showing stress at 85.5 percent, while Birmingham reported fireworks on an average of 16 nights in November.

Dr Samantha Butler-Davies, veterinary director at Pets at Home, noted that animals often hear different frequencies than humans, making the sounds particularly distressing. She urged owners to look for subtle behavioral changes as well as obvious signs of fear. Dogs may pace, pant, or tremble, while cats may hide or eat less. Small pets such as guinea pigs may freeze or stamp their feet.

Butler-Davies advised owners to prepare before dark. She recommended completing walks and feeding before fireworks are likely to begin and securing doors, windows, and enclosures. Owners should use familiar background sounds to soften the noise. For pets with a history of severe fear, she suggested speaking to a veterinarian well in advance to discuss an individual plan.

The survey found that 47 percent of pet owners support restricting fireworks to specific dates each year. A total of 92 percent supported at least one further restriction or regulation on the sale or use of fireworks. Pets at Home is encouraging those planning displays to notify neighbors in advance and to choose lower-noise fireworks.

The retailer has launched a free downloadable window poster for owners to display in their homes. The poster serves as a reminder to neighbors that a pet nearby is frightened by fireworks. Owners are also advised to monitor their animals in the days following a display, checking for changes in eating, drinking, or toileting habits.

Pets at Home provided a list of recommendations for owners, including creating a quiet safe space and reducing visual and auditory stimuli. Owners are told to close curtains and play familiar music or television programs. They should avoid punishing pets for barking, hiding, or toileting indoors. If a pet continues to show fear or stops eating, owners should contact a veterinary practice.