Fireworks-Free Celebrations Your Pets Will Love

Ah, fireworks, a classic way to celebrate that has fascinated us for thousands of years. That fascination with fire and things that go bang continues today, but so does our long-standing relationship with our dogs and cats… and, of course, the folks next door.

And the trouble is, fireworks have never gone particularly well with either of those groups.

That’s why PD Insurance COO Michelle Le Long says, there’s always a trade-off, and she comes down on the side of the pets. “But that doesn’t have to come at the expense of anyone’s fun,” she smiles. There are many ways to get creative, think backyard movie nights, photo booths and more.”

Fireworks could soon become a thing of the past for the public. NZ First has put forward a bill seeking to ban the sale of fireworks to individuals, citing increasing concerns about injuries, animal distress, property damage, and fire risk. If passed, fireworks would be restricted to licensed public displays only.

The proposed change comes after years of debate and mounting public support for tighter controls, as more Kiwis recognise the impact loud, unpredictable fireworks have on pets, livestock, and wildlife, not to mention the strain on emergency services each year.

In New Zealand, we most commonly see fireworks as part of the celebration of events such as Guy Fawkes and New Year’s.

Le Long says the long history of fireworks means for many, elements of tradition combine with nostalgia. “That’s understandable, but at the same time, most of us are well aware that the bangs and pops can be frightening for dogs and cats, as well as many other animals. So, if it’s bright lights and stunning visuals you’re after, there are plenty of alternatives that deliver the spectacle, without scaring pets and causing them to come to harm.”

Those alternatives are, in some cases, linked to the march of technology. Le Long says laser light shows, formerly reserved for public attractions and too expensive for the average person’s home, are today quite accessible. While drone light shows are yet to be as accessible to the average person’s budget, public events can, in some cases outshine even the best fireworks displays.

“Diwali is the festival of lights. What better way to celebrate than with a light show? There’s no noise, the expense is likely less than what some might put into crackers, and you get to use the equipment any time there’s a party, unlike rockets, which are literally burning your money,” she says.

Bringing a bit of brightness doesn’t stop at laser or portable display lights. Kids can have fun with LED wristbands and get bright with glow sticks. “Best of all, these accessories can come out again at Halloween, the next birthday party, or any other fun occasion, without stressing the dogs and cats in the same way that fireworks do.”

Combine bright coloured lights with a fog machine or bubble cannon, and suddenly most of the fun from fireworks is right there. “You’ve got the lights and the smoke without the bang, and happy pets,” Le Long smiles.

There’s growing appetite for more animal-friendly celebrations (which also have the rather convenient and desirable side effects of being far less dangerous – no singed hair, burned hands, or forest fires here). That’s clear, says Le Long, referring to PD Insurance’s latest Human-Pet Bond Survey. Some 88.8% of respondents confirming they see pets as family members or fur babies.

85.6% have included their pets in celebrations by picking a gift, toy, treat, or accessory for special family occasions. “Opting for a fireworks-free party means the pets are going to have as good a time as anyone else,” she notes.

“Attach a pet-safe LED collar or light-up accessory, add some non-toxic glowing toys for the walk around the neighbourhood or along the beach, and the celebration becomes a safe, stress-free experience for everyone.”

At the same time, Le Long says the chances of riling up the neighbours with loud noises and fiery projectiles are greatly reduced. “While the excitement of fireworks is understandable, not everyone is a fan. And it’s always a good idea to keep others in mind, especially our furbabies.”

About PD Insurance (pd.co.nz)

PD is a pet insurance specialist offering pet insurance for cats and dogs with no annual lock-in contracts. The business is a pet insurance company created by pet people for pet people and is committed to fast and fair claims (in as little as two business days) and its customer service philosophy centres around Simplicity (in service delivery) and Soft Landings (a commitment to providing customers a gentle landing in times of need).

Headquartered in Auckland and part of Pacific International Insurance, pd.co.nz has partnered with Healthy Pets New Zealand and Dogs New Zealand to promote pet health and responsible ownership. Recognised for excellence, the business won the 2024 Reader's Digest Silver Pet Insurance award, the 2023 MoneyHub Favourite Pet Insurer Award and Canstar's 2022 Most Satisfied Customers - Pet Insurance award.

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