Home / Lifestyle / Experts Warn Fireworks Pose 'Trauma' for Millions of UK Pets
Experts Warn Fireworks Pose 'Trauma' for Millions of UK Pets
3 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Fireworks displays can cause severe stress and anxiety for dogs
- One dog owner's beloved whippet died after suffering a stroke from fireworks
- Experts advise owners to prepare their dogs and avoid spontaneous fireworks
As numerous fireworks displays are set to take place over the coming months, canine experts are warning dog owners that the loud noises and bright flashes can have a devastating impact on pets. According to the experts, the situation is "nothing short of trauma" for millions of dogs across the UK.
Jo Boughton-White, who runs the UK's oldest herbal pet care company, has joined forces with dog trainer and behaviorist Adem Fehmi to advise owners on how to prepare their anxious dogs for this stressful time. They have urged the public to avoid hosting unorganized or spontaneous firework displays, as these are harder to predict and leave pets vulnerable.
The consequences of these noisy displays can be tragic, as evidenced by the heartbreaking story of Lucy Gell's beloved whippet, Betsy. Betsy suffered a stroke and ultimately had to be euthanized due to the severe stress caused by fireworks. Experts warn that this type of incident is all too common, with an estimated 4.1 million dogs in the UK afraid of fireworks.
