Animal charity calls for ban on public sale of fireworks ahead of Hogmanay celebrations
The Scottish SPCA is calling for complete ban on public sale and use of fireworks ahead of Hogmanay celebrations.
The animal welfare charity said stronger legislation is needed to ‘protect vulnerable animals from distress, injury and harm’ adding many dogs across at their rehoming centres tore up their bedding as a result of panic and fear during Bonfire Night.
Nicola Strachan, head of advocacy and strategic partnerships at the Scottish SPCA, said: “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.”
The charity said animals can develop phobia from loud and high-pitched noises made by fireworks due to having more acute hearing than humans – causing some animals to flee and put them at risk of danger.
Last month the SSPCA published its manifesto ahead of 2026 election, calling for a national animals offenders register, a review of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, the introduction of a permitted list of pets and to embed animal welfare into the Scottish curriculum.
The charity’s proposals set out in the manifesto build on the SSPCA’s ongoing campaigns to introduce a blanket ban on public sale and use of fireworks, to make dog theft a specific offence and ending the use of electric shock collars.