83% of Pet Owners’ Wellbeing Affected by Fireworks
19/10/2025
As Halloween approaches, we are urging pet owners to take extra care of their cats and dogs, amid growing concern over the distress caused by fireworks. A new survey we carried out revealed that an overwhelming 91 per cent of pet owners noticed signs of stress in their pets during firework season. Of those surveyed, over half stated their pets were ‘severely affected’, with many describing signs such as shaking, hiding, excessive barking, destructive behaviour, and escape attempts. Some owners stated their pets were injured by their desperate attempts to flee fireworks. One dog suffered a fractured hip after she opened a window, jumped several walls and ran into oncoming traffic. Others reported cut paws and shoulder injuries from jumping walls, and bleeding mouths from running into glass doors, such was the extent of their pets’ panic. Head of Veterinary Services at The Irish Blue Cross, Laura Mock said: “Fireworks can be terrifying for pets, often leading them to panic and run away in fear. So, we are appealing to owners to make sure their gardens are secure, and to take extra caution when opening front doors. It is essential to ensure pets are microchipped and that contact details are up to date, so pets can be quickly reunited if found. To help calm pets, we recommend creating a safe indoor space filled with their favourite bed, toys and chews, that they can retreat to, if they want to hide. However, if your pet seeks comfort from you, please provide it. Talking in a low, calm tone can provide much needed reassurance.” We are reminding pet owners to take care with Halloween treats such as chocolate, grapes, sweets and raisins which can be toxic to animals. We are also appealing to owners to avoid dressing up pets, as this can cause additional stress and increase the risk of people being bitten or scratched. Communications Executive at The Irish Blue Cross, Corina Fitzsimons continued: “Over half of the surveyed respondents reported hearing fireworks in September, while almost a third heard them as early as August. This early and unpredictable nature of fireworks is making it even harder for pet owners to prepare, leaving many animals stressed for weeks. The survey also found most participants support tighter restrictions on fireworks and 80% support the use of silent fireworks to reduce the impact on pets, wildlife and vulnerable people.” For information on keeping your pet safe this Halloween, please visit the charity’s website www.BlueCross.ie/Halloween
