KC ANNOUNCEMENT.
Following the UK Government launching a consultation today on proposals to ban the loudest fireworks outside of professional displays, the Royal Kennel Club has issued a statement welcoming the consultation.
The Royal Kennel Club has campaigned on this issue for many years, including hosting parliamentary events, briefing MPs and peers, and engaging directly with Ministers. It is pleased to see progress on an issue that is so important to the welfare of dogs and other animals.
Please attribute to Dr Ed Hayes, Head of Public Affairs at the Royal Kennel Club.
“The Royal Kennel Club is pleased to see progress on its longstanding campaign to reduce the impact fireworks can have on dogs and other animals and welcomes the UK Government’s consultation.
“We have campaigned on this issue for many years, investing significant effort in raising awareness, including hosting parliamentary events in Westminster, briefing MPs and peers ahead of debates, engaging directly with Ministers and officials, and encouraging dog owners to make their voices heard.
“Unexpected loud bangs and bright flashes can cause significant distress, making events that involve fireworks particularly stressful for many dogs. Royal Kennel Club research shows that 80 per cent of dog owners notice significant changes in their dog’s behaviour during fireworks, with many dogs showing signs of extreme fear, including trembling, hiding, barking excessively and becoming unusually clingy. RKC research also shows a 100 per cent increase in dogs going missing during the fireworks season, with almost a third of owners saying their dog shivers and trembles during fireworks.
“Alongside our campaigning, we have also provided owners with guidance and support to help their dogs cope during fireworks season, available on our website.
“We welcome new measures that aim to reduce the distress fireworks can cause while allowing celebrations to continue responsibly. We look forward to contributing to the consultation and continuing to work with the Government to improve animal welfare.”

The Government consultation can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/fireworks-and-pyrotechnics-in-the-uk and closes on 11:59pm on 7 October 2026

Do not delay – have your say – we will not get full ban on fireworks but influencing the noise levels is really critical for our pets and wildlife