Guy Fawkes is coming… along with the bangs, whistles and shrieks of fireworks. Sure, it’s exciting for some, but terrifying for others, especially if they have no idea what’s going on – like animals. This includes the more than 4.35 million pets who reside in New Zealand.

Many organisations have called for a ban on fireworks and many Kiwis want to see backyard fireworks banned. Pet insurance specialist PD Insurance’s COO, Michelle Le Long, explains, “We’ve seen several insurance claims related to pets and fireworks. From stress-induced injuries to escape attempts, it’s a vital reminder of the importance of keeping our furry family members safe and calm during noisy celebrations.”

Adding to Michelle’s observation, Healthy Pets NZ Chair Dr. Cath Watson shares, “I’ve witnessed broken teeth, torn limbs (especially toes and pads) damaged eyes, torn ears, and deep penetrating wounds from glass, including one that pierced the chest and lacerated a lung. I’ve also seen dogs hit by cars while fleeing in panic, and horses badly tangled in fences. These incidents can tragically result in death or euthanasia.”

Dogs and cats can hear higher frequencies and sounds at greater distances, so the explosive noises of fireworks might seem closer, louder, and more disorienting to them. If you factor in sudden flashing lights, fires by rogue fireworks, wrongdoers tormenting animals with fireworks and extra traffic on the roads, there’s a higher risk that your pet may run away or become injured,” adds Le Long.

Prevention better than cure

If your pet is showing extreme reactions to loud noises, especially if it’s worsening over time, don’t wait for them to grow out of it, get help, says Dr. Watson. “Talk to your vet about medication, non-drug tools, and strategies. A referral to a veterinary behaviorist can be money well spent to avoid costly recovery later.”

PD Insurance suggests pet parents plan ahead for Guy Fawkes – and New Year’s Eve for that matter – with these six simple steps:

1. If you plan on having fireworks post a notice in neighbourhood online groups so your neighbours are forewarned. Perhaps even distribute a leaflet into the neighbourhood letterboxes.
2. Create a safe pet space inside that’s dark, enclosed, and filled with comforting things. Bring pets there, then close the windows and draw the blinds. Cover outdoor aviaries with a tarpaulin.
3. Help your pet relax with distractions, treats or calming sprays/wraps. Your local pet store or vet can provide you with great options for your furry family member.
4. Try to stay calm, even though it’s distressing to see your pet upset and scared. They take their cues from you so reassure them in a comforting manner that they are always safe with you.
5. There’s always a risk your animal may bolt so ensure they’re micro chipped and tagged with your contact details. Take photos, especially of unique marks/fur patterns to help others identify them if needed later.
6. Playing calming music is another effective way to reduce anxiety. Soothing sounds such as classical music or calming playlists for pets help drown out the noise and soothe pets.

“If you’re going to use fireworks, make sure to prioritise the safety of pets and other animals. Keep your celebrations mindful by setting off fireworks in areas far from animals, and ensure pets are secure indoors,” says Le Long.

“By being considerate, you can enjoy your festivities while doing your best to protect the animals who can’t speak up to express their fear or ask for help,” concludes Le Long.

Media contact 

Leandri Smith – The Mail Room 
027 365 9003 | [email protected]  

About PD Insurance (pd.co.nz)

pd.co.nz is a pet insurance specialist that offers low cost, high value pet insurance. The company’s goal is to empower pet parents to make easy, quick, care-based decisions around their pet’s health without worrying about cost. Unique to pd.co.nz is its month-to-month payment model whereby customers aren’t locked into a contract, so they can cancel anytime without penalty.

The company is committed to a fast and fair claims service, aiming for resolution within two business days of receiving all documentation. As with all Badger International brands, the essence of the pd.co.nz customer service philosophy is Simplicity (in service delivery) and Soft Landings (a commitment to providing customers a gentle landing in times of need).

Headquartered in Auckland, pd.co.nz employs a local team of animal lovers who provide support such as sales, marketing, and operations. The company is a division of Pacific International Insurance and wholly owned by Badger International NZ LP.

Recognising every animal deserves to be well cared for, pd.co.nz is the proud Principal Partner of Healthy Pets New Zealand, a charity established in 1998 by the New Zealand Veterinary Association’s Companion Animal Branch to draw attention to the ‘big health and welfare issues of Kiwi pets’.

It is also principal partner of Dogs New Zealand, the country’s national kennel club. Together they share a mission to inform, educate and raise awareness of responsible dog ownership in New Zealand – a country that recognises dogs are an integral part of society.