19/07/2026
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New law could ban you from buying the loudest fireworks - but pet owners would be delighted.
Dog owners whose pets shiver, tremble and go missing during fireworks season could see the end of unexpected loud bangs as a new crackdown is launched. 🐕
"Unexpected loud bangs and bright flashes can cause significant distress, making events that involve fireworks particularly stressful for many dogs." 🐶
The Government has launched a new consultation that could severely restrict the public from buying the loudest types of fireworks.
Consumer protection minister Kate Dearden said she decided to take action after being contacted by families, charities, and parliamentarians about the devastating impact of unexpected loud bangs.
The new proposals would mean the noisiest fireworks are completely banned for the general public and only made available to professional users.
Ministers are also looking at extending the list of banned pyrotechnic products and reviewing the regulations for those currently classified as lower risk.
Animal charities have widely welcomed the move, highlighting how stressful traditional fireworks season is for millions of households across the country.
The Royal Kennel Club revealed that a staggering 80 per cent of dog owners notice significant changes in their pet's behaviour when fireworks are let off.
Many animals show signs of extreme fear, including trembling, hiding, barking excessively, and becoming unusually clingy.
Even more concerning for families is research showing a 100 per cent increase in dogs going missing during the peak fireworks season.
Royal Kennel Club head of public affairs Ed Hayes welcomed the proposed measures, noting that nearly a third of owners say their dogs shiver and tremble during the loud displays.
He stated that unexpected loud bangs and bright flashes cause significant distress and make these events incredibly stressful for pets.
The Government will now gather evidence and responses from local authorities, emergency services, and animal welfare organisations to refine the final legislation.
David Bowles OBE, head of public affairs at the RSPCA, said: “We are thrilled by this major step forward from the UK Government. We now urge pet owners and animal lovers across England and Wales to act now and give their voice to this consultation and help ensure safer and more responsible use of fireworks.
“For too long now, pets, horses, wildlife and farmed animals have been deeply affected by the impact of fireworks and the lack of regulation - including from DIY and impromptu displays.
“Animals such as dogs and horses can suffer from tinnitus, hearing loss and long-term hearing damage caused by fireworks, while all animals can experience stress and fear – which has in some instances lead to injury and even death. Similarly, livestock and other animals living outdoors often try to escape the bangs out of fear, sometimes injuring themselves in the process, and the consequences can be devastating."
