It’s That Time of Year Again – Summer & Fireworks… & Fear for Our Pets & Wildlife

Summer means longer days, backyard barbecues & of course—fireworks. While fireworks light up the skies for humans, they bring fear, confusion & danger to the animals we share this world with. From pets hiding in panic to wild birds abandoning their nests, fireworks are more than just loud noises—they're a real threat.

Pets & Panic: Why Fireworks Terrify Dogs & Cats

For dogs, cats, & other companion animals, fireworks are sudden, unpredictable explosions. They don’t understand that it's “just for fun.” What they feel is fear.

Loud bangs can trigger anxiety, trembling, hiding, or destructive behavior.

Some pets may even bolt in fear, breaking through windows, fences or leashes. In Canada the May, July & August long weekends are peak days for missing pet reports.

Pets with noise sensitivity or past trauma (like rescues) can experience days of distress after the event.

Wildlife & the Hidden Cost of Celebration

It’s not just our pets who suffer—wildlife does, too.

Fireworks can scare birds from their nests, leaving chicks vulnerable to the elements or predators.

Deer, foxes & smaller mammals may flee their territories in panic, sometimes running into roads or dangerous areas.

The bright lights & smoke disrupt nocturnal animals’ senses, while toxic debris pollutes their habitat.

There Are Safer Ways to Celebrate

The good news? We don’t have to choose between celebrating & being kind to animals.

Drone light shows are a creative, quiet, & safe alternative. They create stunning visuals without the deafening booms or harmful chemicals.

Laser shows, glow parties, & projection displays are also fun, festive options that don’t traumatize animals.

Communities around the world are beginning to make the switch—& we hope more will follow.

What You Can Do: Be Kind This Season

Skip backyard fireworks. Attend animal-friendly events or advocate for quieter alternatives in your community.

Keep pets indoors. Close windows, play calming music, & use anxiety wraps or pheromones if needed.

Update ID tags & microchips in case your pet escapes.

Spread awareness. Let your friends & neighbors know about the real risks—& the better options.

Fireworks may be fun for us, but they’re frightening for the animals who trust us. This summer, choose kindness, calm, & compassion—for our pets, for wildlife, & for the planet.