Fireworks & animals

How to prepare, what to do on the night, and when to get help

For many people, New Year’s Eve is exciting. For animals — it can be overwhelming, confusing, and genuinely frightening. Every year, owners reach out online saying the same things:“My dog is hiding.”“My horse won’t settle.”“My cat is shaking, pacing, vocalising, or acting out of character.”

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone — and more importantly, your animal isn’t being dramatic or naughty. They’re responding to something they don’t understand, can’t predict, and didn’t choose.

The good news? There are things you can do now, and on the night itself, to help your animal feel safer and more supported.

Why animals generally don't like fireworks

Fireworks are a perfect storm for animals:

• Sudden, unpredictable loud noises

• Vibrations felt through the ground

• Flashes of light with no clear source

• A lack of warning or ability to escape

Animals don’t have the context we do. They don’t know fireworks are “celebrations.” Their nervous system simply registers danger.

Repeated exposure without support can lead to:

• Heightened anxiety

• Noise sensitivity

• Panic responses

• Long-term fear associations

This is especially true for animals who are already sensitive, young, elderly, grieving, or have experienced trauma.

Practical steps – What you can do now

Preparation can make a huge difference.

Before New Year’s Eve:

• Create a safe space your animal can choose to go to (crate, room, stable, sheltered paddock)

• Introduce calming routines early — predictability builds security

• Play low-volume background noise (TV, music, white noise) before the big night so it’s familiar

• Ensure ID tags, microchips, gates, and fences are secure

• Avoid unintentionally rehearsing fear by over-soothing or constantly checking reactions

For dogs specifically:

• Practice settling behaviours during calm times

• Reward calm choices, not fearful responses

• Keep walks earlier in the day so they are inside well before the fireworks are due to start

• Close curtains and blinds to reduce flashes of light

Dogs often cope by seeking reassurance, pacing, or staying close to their people. Responding calmly and providing predictable support helps prevent escalation into panic and long-term noise sensitivity.

For cats specifically:

• Keep cats indoors well before fireworks are due to start

• Provide multiple hiding options (boxes, cupboards, under beds) so they can choose where they feel safest

• Do not pull cats out of hiding — hiding is a healthy coping strategy

• Close curtains and blinds to reduce flashes of light

• Keep litter trays, food, and water easily accessible so they don’t have to travel far

• Speak softly and move slowly around the house

Cats often cope by becoming quiet and invisible. Respecting their need for space helps prevent panic, escape attempts, and prolonged stress.

For livestock & horses:

• Bring animals closer to known companions if possible well before the fireworks are due to start

• Avoid unnecessary movement or changes in routine close to the start of the fireworks

• Ensure fencing and yards are safe if startled movement does occur

Horses often cope by staying close to herd mates and remaining alert to their surroundings. Maintaining routine, safe containment, and quiet reassurance helps reduce startle responses and injury risk.

Practical steps – What to do on the night

When fireworks begin:

• Stay calm — your animal will take cues from you

• Allow them to choose where they feel safest

• Keep doors, windows, and gates secured

• Use background noise to help soften the sharpness of fireworks

• Do not punish fear responses

• Avoid forcing interaction — presence without pressure is powerful

If your animal seeks comfort, offer it quietly. If they want space, respect that too.

Both responses are valid.

When to get help

If your animal:

• Panics to the point of self-injury

• Attempts to escape repeatedly

• Shows escalating fear each year

• Is unable to recover once the noise stops

…it’s time for professional support.

Fireworks fear doesn’t usually resolve on its own — but with the right guidance, it can be improved.

If fireworks are stressful for your animal — or for you — support is available.

👉 Explore Animal Talent Academy titles for a positive, confidence-building way to strengthen your bond and help your animal develop coping skills in a pressure-free environment.

👉 Book a personalised training or behaviour consultation with Amy Curran, founder of the Animal Talent Academy of Australia, grounded in animal psychology, real-world experience, and compassion.

👉 Jump into the Animal Talent Academy Facebook Group on the night to connect with any supportive ATA group members who may be online, share what you’re seeing, and get calm reassurance when you need it most.

Because calm, confident animals aren’t born — they’re supported.

FOR KIDS How you can help your pet during fireworks

Fireworks can be really scary for animals. They don’t know it’s a celebration — they just hear loud bangs and feel big vibrations.

If you want to help your pet feel safer, here are some things you can do:

• Give them space if they hide or move away(That’s their way of coping — it’s okay.)

• Sit quietly nearby instead of hugging or holding them tight

• Use a calm voice if you talk to them

• Don’t force them to be brave — fear isn’t a choice

• Tell an adult if you’re worried or if your pet seems very upset

Helping your pet feel safe also helps you.Being calm, gentle, and patient can make a big difference for both of you.