The animal welfare charity is calling for a ban on the public sale and use of fireworks following the devastating impact of Bonfire Night on animals across its centres.
The loud noises and unpredictability of fireworks can have a harmful effect on pets, wildlife and farmed animals. They can cause the animal to feel stress and panic, which can then lead to them fleeing, self-injury and even fatalities.
The Scottish SPCA has now said enough is enough and is appealing for stronger legislation to be put in place which will help protect animals from distress and injury.
It comes following the shocking aftermath of Bonfire Night fireworks, which showcased just how distressing they can be for animals. Many scared dogs at the Scottish SPCA’s Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Glasgow tore up and messed their bedding as a result of panic and fear.
Be mindful this Hogmanay
The animal welfare charity is pleading with the public to be mindful this Hogmanay and if they are using fireworks at home to:
- Be aware of your surroundings and the effect fireworks can have on wildlife/farmed animals
- Attend an organised display where possible
- Be mindful of sparklers and make sure they’re out properly
- Consult a vet for advice ahead of Hogmanay if you’re concerned about your animal
- Make sure your pet is microchipped and information is up-to-date
- Stay at home with your pet if possible to care for them
- Check in with neighbours so you can make plans for your animal in the case of private/garden displays
Animals have more acute hearing than humans, which means that the loud and high-pitched noises made by fireworks can cause them to react in this way or develop phobia responses. Animals will also try flee at the sound of the bang, and this can lead them towards danger such as being the cause of a road traffic accident.
Nicola Strachan, Head of Advocacy and Strategic Partnerships at the Scottish SPCA, said: “Many pet owners and farmers experience first-hand the frightening effect fireworks have on their animals – and our centres are no different. The aftermath of Bonfire Night showcased the devastating impact they had on animals in our care, with a number of terrified dogs having shredded and messed their bedding as a result of panic and stress. This can’t continue and has to stop.
We are calling for a complete ban on the public sale and use of fireworks
“We are in no doubt there will be similar impact following New Year’s Eve so we are calling for a complete ban on the public sale and use of fireworks. It’s time for stronger legislation to protect vulnerable animals from distress, injury and harm.”
The Scottish SPCA has launched their manifesto ahead of the 2026 Scottish election: Animals Count: Make Them Matter. It outlines four main asks: Create a National Animals Offenders Register; Embed Animal Welfare into the Scottish Curriculum; Review the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006; and introduce a permitted list of pets. With their manifesto, the Scottish SPCA has also set out their mission to campaign for a full ban on the public sale and use of fireworks, calling for stronger legislation to protect animals and vulnerable individuals from distress, injury or harm. To find out more, visit the Scottish SPCA website.
Please read further information on buying responsibly and protecting animal welfare.
To report any act of cruelty, visit our Contact Us page.
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