Senior vets call for complete ban on firework sales to the public

A group of senior vets have called for a full ban on the public sale of fireworks, citing concerns for the welfare of animals and pets. 

Professionals from Vets Now, the UK’s leading provider of pet emergency care, have been urging the government to change the law amid concern that pets are being put at risk, especially around bonfire night.

Vets Now’s network of clinics and hospitals report a spike in pets who have been involved in accidents after being spooked by fireworks at this time of year.

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Dave Leicester, the man responsible for the Video Vets Now service, said: “Fireworks can be hugely distressing for pets, birds and wildlife particularly when they’re let off unexpectedly.

“Although still distressing, pet owners can at least plan for well-publicised public events, or even take their pets elsewhere when they know they’re happening, but that’s not the case for indiscriminate private displays.

“It’s often the random flashes and bangs from those that cause most misery to our pets.

“While fireworks season may never be your dog’s favourite time of year, taking steps to prepare them in the weeks leading up to bonfire night can help make the whole experience less traumatic.”

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This comes just days after Center Parcs announced it would be cancelling its famous firework displays in order to preserve and protect the surrounding woodland and wildlife. 

The popular holiday company said in a statement that their decision came as a result of the stress and anxiety fireworks can cause to wildlife, household pets and some of its guests, as well as the many environmental issues they can cause.

They added that, as an alternative to their firework displays, they will be ‘lighting up the forest with a brand-new Enchanted Light Trail’ throughout the winter months, which will be available to visit every evening.

For tips on how to keep your pets safe during bonfire night, visit the Vets Now website.