“It’s ridiculous to carry on this tradition”: Locals say fireworks are terrifying animals

Locals around Coventry and Warwickshire are taking to social media to share their displeasure with week after week of fireworks. Displays are expected to continue around the area, with Kenilworth Castle’s Bonfire Night event this weekend and personal displays expected until early January.

Residents in Kenilworth have been voicing their disdain for the festivities on Facebook this week. One local took to the community Facebook group on Bonfire Night, saying, “It’s ridiculous to carry on this tradition when it clearly impacts badly upon animals and people”. Another said, “Please stop the fireworks, dogs won’t go out to the toilet because they are scared.”

CovFeed spoke to local pedigree dog breeder and wildlife enthusiast Andrew Barker about how our pups cope with the celebrations. “Most dogs are probably bought as puppies; they don't know anything, so they have to be protected from noise”, said Andrew. He expressed the importance of training our dog to not be afraid of the noises, “When we come around to Diwali, or Bonfire Night, or Halloween, when we have lots of lots of fireworks go off, it's important that they are aware of what's happening outside.” 

Andrew’s labrador, Finn

However, Andrew went on to say that our wildlife may not be too impacted by fireworks, “I get to view the wildlife during the day with binoculars and cameras, and also with thermal imaging at night, so when we come around to the times of the year when the fireworks are really very loud and noisy, I can view the [animals] and I see virtually no terror or any undue actions where the animals are upset by the noises and the bangs.”

Ultimately, wildlife seems to be acclimating to the traditions. However, it is still clear that dog owners should be careful with their pups during the festive period and train them not to fear the sounds outside.

If you need help supporting your dog during the festive period, consult Dogs Trust’s guide. https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/seasonal/fireworks