Belfast councillor Anthony Flynn has now called for an urgent review of the Fireworks Law after the incident
A dog had to be put to sleep after suffering an anxiety-induced stroke due to fireworks, a councillor has revealed.
Belfast Green Party Councillor Anthony Flynn said he was shown a video of the animal and is now calling for a change to 23 year old legislation covering Northern Ireland, that acknowledges the stress created by fireworks upon pets and humans.
Fireworks cause fear and panic in dogs due to the loud noises and flashing lights, which can trigger a “fight or flight or freeze” response. Signs of this stress range from mild anxiety, like panting and pacing, to severe panic, which can include destructive behaviour, hiding, and trying to escape.
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The sudden, unpredictable nature of fireworks is perceived as a threat, activating the dog’s stress response, and can be a genuine phobia for some dogs, similar to a panic attack. Loud noises can be physically painful to a dog’s sensitive ears and may cause temporary or even permanent hearing damage, while fear and anxiety can cause a dog’s heart rate to accelerate.
Councillor Anthony Flynn said: “This morning I was shown deeply distressing footage of a family dog suffering an anxiety-induced stroke after being terrified by fireworks set off near their home. Despite the best efforts of their owners and vets, the dog had to be put to sleep. No animal should endure that level of fear.
“Every year, fireworks also cause huge distress to residents across Northern Ireland, particularly those living with anxiety, PTSD, and other medical conditions. The unexpected explosions and constant noise can trigger panic attacks, flashbacks and sleepless nights for countless people.
“The current legislation, the Explosives (Fireworks) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2002, has not been meaningfully reviewed in over two decades. It is failing to protect both people and animals.”
He called on the Department of Justice and the Justice Minister to urgently commission a full review of NI fireworks laws, working with animal welfare groups, mental health organisations, local councils, the PSNI and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.
He added: “The review must look at limiting private use, enforcing stricter sale controls, introducing low-noise fireworks as standard, and reducing the time window in which fireworks can legally be used.
“Fireworks may be brief entertainment for some, but for many families, they bring nights of fear, distress and, as we saw in this tragic case, heartbreak. Northern Ireland deserves laws that reflect compassion, safety, and respect for all who live here.”
The Dogs Trust advises if your dog shows signs of fear of fireworks or loud noises, make an appointment with a vet as soon as possible. The professional can check if there are any medical problems contributing to your dog’s fear of noises.
If you are expecting fireworks, stay with your dog, as they may panic if left alone. Having you or someone they know and trust for company will help them relax.
Check your house and garden are escape-proof. Your dog could try to run away if they’re scared. Block out flashes and bangs, and close any windows or curtains and turn the lights on. Put on music/soft sounds or the TV to help disguise the noise and distract their attention.
If your dog wants to hide, let them stay where they feel safe. If they seek reassurance, calmly give them attention and comfort. Research shows that ignoring them won’t help.
Try to stay calm and relaxed. Your dog will pick up on how you’re feeling, so do your best to relax. And above all, don’t tell your dog off.
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