Fireworks and Pet Anxiety - A Community Call to Action

FOUR PAWS South Africa appeals to communities to prioritise animal safety during informal Guy Fawkes activities 

Cape Town, 03 November 2025 — As 5 November approaches, FOUR PAWS is urging communities to be mindful of the distress fireworks cause to pets and wildlife. While Guy Fawkes Day is not officially recognised in South Africa, informal firework activity still occurs in many neighbourhoods often with serious consequences for animals.

“Fireworks may be a thrill for some, but for animals, they’re a source of panic and trauma,” says Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa. “Every year, we see pets go missing, injure themselves, or suffer severe anxiety due to the noise and chaos. It’s time we prioritise compassion over spectacle.”

Practical tips to support your pet, your neighbours, and their animals

FOUR PAWS offers expert advice to help communities protect animals during this high-risk period:

For your pet:

• Create a calm zone: Set up a quiet, enclosed space with familiar bedding and toys. Play soft music to mask outside noise.
• Avoid leaving pets alone: Stay with your pet during peak firework hours. Your presence is reassuring.
• Microchip and tag: Ensure your pet is microchipped and wears an ID tag in case they escape in fear.

For your neighbours:

• Communicate openly: If you’re aware of informal firework activity, inform neighbours so they can prepare and report it to your nearest authorities.
• Offer support: Check in with elderly neighbours or those with anxious pets. Share tips or offer help if needed.

For family and friends:

• Educate children: Help kids understand how fireworks affect animals. Encourage empathy and safer forms of celebration.
• Plan pet-safe gatherings: If hosting guests, ensure pets have a secure retreat away from noise and unfamiliar faces.

Say No to irresponsible firework use

FOUR PAWS also reminds the public that many municipalities, including Cape Town, have strict regulations on firework use. Unauthorised displays not only endanger animals but can result in fines or legal action. “Let’s shift the culture,” Miles adds. “Celebration doesn’t have to come at the cost of animal welfare. By choosing kindness, we create safer, more inclusive communities.”

This 5 November, let’s make a different kind of noise that speaks for the voiceless. Whether you're a pet owner, neighbour, or concerned citizen, your actions matter.

For more information, please visit our website at www.four-paws.org.za