The sparkle of fireworks might be magical for us, but for pets and horses it’s often a very different story. Every year, thousands of animals suffer fear, stress and even injury as a result of fireworks season. As Diwali and Bonfire Night approach, Petpals, the nation’s longest-running multi-service pet care franchise, is encouraging families to take steps now to make celebrations less frightening for their four-legged friends.

To help, Petpals has launched Paws The Bangs – a nationwide awareness campaign, developed with the support of in-house vet Dr Sophie Bell, that offers friendly, practical advice for owners. The campaign brings together expert guidance, videos and simple solutions, from calming techniques to creating safe spaces at home, all designed to make fireworks season safer and less stressful for pets.

Paws The Bangs is also about looking to the future. Petpals is calling for kinder alternatives to traditional fireworks at public events, such as drone or laser displays, which provide all the spectacle without the same distress for animals and wildlife. Research from the Fireworks Impact Report Survey conducted by RSPCA highlights just how important this shift could be:

• 95% of pet owners dread fireworks season because of the impact on their animals and local wildlife.
• 30% feel isolated in their views on fireworks.
• 40% admit they feel awkward raising concerns with neighbours.
• Encouragingly, 75% said they would use a firework alternative if asked by a neighbour with pets.

“Fireworks season can be one of the most difficult times of year for pets, and it’s heartbreaking for owners to watch,” said Kevin Thackrah, Director of Petpals. “Through Paws The Bangs, we’re giving families the tools they need to prepare and reassure their pets, while also raising awareness that there are kinder ways to celebrate. By making small changes, we can all help create a future where celebrations don’t come at the expense of animal welfare.”

Alongside advice and resources, the campaign encourages people to get involved by joining the RSPCA’s Out with the Bang initiative, which enables pet lovers to easily contact their MP to push for more regulation on firework use.

With over 150 territories across the UK, Petpals’ local teams will be sharing campaign materials in their communities to ensure families feel supported and prepared before the first rocket lights up the sky.

To learn more about Petpals’ Paws The Bangs campaign, visit www.petpals.com/paws-the-bangs