Scottish SPCA calls for UK-wide fireworks ban to protect animals

The charity is urging an end to the private sale and use of fireworks, warning of the risks to horses, livestock, pets and wildlife ahead of Bonfire Night.

The Scottish SPCA is calling for a UK-wide ban on the private sale and use of fireworks, warning that unpredictable displays can cause animals significant distress and put them at risk of injury.

The charity is urging the public to support professionally organised displays in controlled environments, arguing that advance notice would give farmers, horse owners and animal carers more time to prepare.

A recent survey of 1,625 Scottish SPCA members found that 67% were extremely anxious about the impact of Bonfire Night on their pets. Meanwhile, 98.2% said they would support a full ban on the public sale and use of fireworks in Scotland, restricting their use to professionally organised displays.

The findings come alongside this year’s Animal Kindness Index, conducted by YouGov and produced by the RSPCA, Scottish SPCA and USPCA. The research found that support for Firework Control Zones (FCZs) was higher in Scotland, at 86%, compared with 80% across the rest of the UK.

Fireworks pose risks to horses and livestock

Nicola Strachan, Head of Advocacy and Strategic Partnerships at the Scottish SPCA, said fireworks could have a serious impact on animals in farming communities.

“Sudden bangs and bright flashes can frighten horses and livestock, causing them to panic, attempt to escape or put themselves at risk of injury,” she said.

“Unlike pet owners, farmers cannot simply bring every animal indoors, and unpredictable private use makes it extremely difficult for them to prepare.” Strachan also warned that spent fireworks and debris could land in fields, grazing areas and water sources, creating additional hazards for livestock, wildlife and the environment.

The charity wants private sales and use to end, with fireworks restricted to regulated, organised displays advertised in advance. It believes this would allow rural communities to take precautions while enabling celebrations to continue.

Farmer describes distressing impact on pedigree sheep

The impact of private fireworks was highlighted by a farmer whose small flock of pedigree sheep was left severely distressed following a nearby display. The farmer said a neighbour had advised that the display would last around 20 minutes. However, it continued for more than two hours, with some of the loudest fireworks she had ever heard.

Using a headtorch to search the fields in the dark, she eventually found her sheep huddled in a corner, breathing heavily and showing clear signs of distress.

“It was just awful to see my sheep so impacted by a private firework display,” she said.

“It was a horrible sight and what was more distressing to me was that this was clearly preventable – why do we allow people to buy private fireworks?”

The following morning, she spent considerable time walking the fields to remove spent fireworks, including casings and broken pieces of wood that could injure her sheep. The incident highlights concerns about both the immediate effects of fireworks and the hazards left behind after displays have ended.

Calls for stronger firework controls

The Scottish SPCA acknowledges that organised displays can still pose risks to animals. However, advance notice, a known location and a defined duration can help owners and carers prepare. The charity is urging organisers to consider nearby homes, rescue centres, farms, stables and wildlife habitats when planning events, minimise disturbance and ensure debris is cleared afterwards. It also supports a 90-decibel noise limit as an interim measure, while stressing that quieter fireworks would not eliminate risks from sudden flashes, repeated exposure or unpredictable use.

Alongside its call for UK-wide reform, the Scottish SPCA wants the Scottish Government to set a clear timetable for public licensing and restrictions on days of supply. It is also calling for Firework Control Zones to be properly resourced and evaluated.

The charity is encouraging supporters to contact their MP to call for a UK-wide ban on private firework sales and use, and their MSP to seek stronger protections in Scotland.

How to protect horses and livestock during fireworks season

The Scottish SPCA recommends that livestock owners and carers take practical steps to reduce risks during fireworks activity:

• Speak to neighbours: Let them know livestock are present and discuss planned displays where possible.
• Arrange supervision: Ask an experienced person to remain with animals when fireworks are expected.
• Check fencing: Inspect boundaries and reinforce enclosures where necessary to reduce the risk of escape.
• Consider background music: Playing music may help reduce the impact of sudden noises, depending on the animals and their surroundings.
• Monitor animals: Check regularly for signs of stress, unusual behaviour or injury.

Horse owners should also consider their animals’ individual needs, surroundings and previous reactions to loud noises.

For further advice on protecting animals and information about the campaign, visit the Scottish SPCA website.