Dog owners should avoid taking their pets to fireworks, even when a pet does not appear frightened. This view comes from veterinary therapist Igor Rubel and veterinary neurologist Lyudmila Konikova, who emphasize the long-term risks to canine welfare during celebrations that feature loud blasts and bright flashes.
Many owners still bring dogs along for extended outdoor walks during New Year’s Eve. Yet the nights around the holiday are filled with fireworks that can harm a dog both physically and emotionally. A single nearby explosion or a stray firework landing near the animal can trigger lasting distress and possible injuries, underscoring the need to reassess any routine that involves exposure to loud noises and sudden lights.
Even if a dog has previously tolerated fireworks without visible fear, there is still a risk of psychological harm. Experts note that distress can translate into concrete problems, such as a dog freezing in place, refusing to walk, or reacting to sounds with heightened anxiety long after the event. These symptoms often lead owners to seek veterinary advice after celebrations, looking for ways to help their pet recover from the stress and fear triggered by fireworks.
When fear takes over, a frightened dog might act impulsively, running into traffic, colliding with obstacles, or injuring itself while trying to escape the sound and light. This is not simply about a momentary fright; it can affect a dog’s behavior for days or weeks, complicating routine care and daily life for both animal and owner.
Even dogs that seem calm around fireworks should be treated with caution. Bright lights and fast movements can attract a dog’s curiosity, leading to attempts to chase or bite the moving spectacle. The safest practice on New Year’s Eve is to place the dog on a leash, keep the animal indoors, and consider a muzzle if there is any risk of the dog darting toward the source of the noise. Such precautions help prevent both injuries and psychological distress during the fireworks season.
In broader terms, researchers have explored how environmental stressors like loud noises can trigger conflicts or distress in animals, highlighting the importance of proactive management during high-risk periods. The takeaway is clear: protecting a dog from fireworks reduces the chance of harm and supports healthier, less anxious behavior in the days that follow the celebration.