"Many pet owners and farmers experience first-hand the frightening effect fireworks have on their animals" - Nicola Strachan, Scottish SPCA.

The charity is asking the public to act responsibly this Hogmanay. 

The Scottish SPCA is calling for stronger legislation on fireworks, warning that loud, unpredictable noises can have a harmful effect on pets, wildlife and farmed animals.

It follows the shocking aftermath of Bonfire Night, where terrified dogs at the Scottish SPCA’s Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Glasgow tore up and soiled their bedding due to fear.

With Hogmanay around the corner, the Scottish SPCA is pleading with the public to be mindful if they are using fireworks at home, or to attend organised display where possible.

Nicola Strachan, head of advocacy and strategic partnership at the Scottish SPCA, reiterated the organisations call for a complete ban on the public sale and use of fireworks.

“Many pet owners and farmers experience first-hand the frightening effect fireworks have on their animals - and our centres are no different. The aftermath of Bonfire Night showcased the devastating impact they had on animals in our care, with a number of terrified dogs having shredded and messed their bedding as a result of panic and stress. This can’t continue and has to stop.

“We are in no doubt there will be similar impact following New Year’s Eve so we are calling for a complete ban on the public sale and use of fireworks. It’s time for stronger legislation to protect vulnerable animals from distress, injury and harm."

Ahead of the 2026 Scottish election, the Scottish SPCA has also launched its manifesto, Animal Count: Make Them Matter, which includes four key proposals:

·      Create a National Animal Offenders Register
·      Embed Animal Welfare into the Scottish Curriculum
·      Review the Animal and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006
·      Introduce a permitted list of pets.

The charity has also set out a campaign for a full ban on the public sale and use of fireworks to better protect animals and vulnerable individuals from distress. For more information, visit the Scottish SPCA website. 

Image (C) Shutterstock/Sanjagrujic.