As communities across South Africa gear up for New Year’s celebrations, animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS South Africa is urging residents to rethink a familiar tradition: fireworks. While loud displays can be exciting for humans, the noise and chaos they create can be terrifying and harmful to animals — from household pets to wildlife and livestock.
Why Fireworks Hurt Animals
Fireworks may thrill people, but for animals they can cause panic, trauma, and physical danger:
- Heightened stress responses: Dogs and cats hear sounds up to four times better than humans, making explosions feel far louder and more threatening.
- Escape risks: Pets in panic often bolt, increasing the risk of traffic accidents or getting lost.
- Wildlife impact: Birds and small wild animals can be disoriented or injured by sudden noise and flashes of light.
- Long‑term fear: Even a single traumatic firework experience can trigger lifelong noise phobia in animals.
“Every year, we see pets go missing, injure themselves, or suffer severe anxiety due to the noise and chaos,” says Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa. “It’s time we prioritise compassion over spectacle.”
Making New Year’s Safer for Animals
FOUR PAWS encourages responsible celebrations that protect the most vulnerable. Here’s how families and communities can help:
✦ Say NO to Fireworks
- Choose silent alternatives such as laser shows or eco-friendly light displays.
- Support local bylaws or councils enforcing firework restrictions.
- Report illegal firework use to local authorities.
✦ Create Safe Spaces for Pets
- Prepare a quiet, secure area indoors with familiar bedding and toys.
- Close windows and curtains to reduce noise and flashes.
- Play calming music or white noise to mask loud sounds.
- Never leave pets alone during peak firework times.
✦ Educate and Engage the Community
- Teach children about the impact of loud celebrations on animals.
- Share tips with neighbours, especially in apartments or close-knit communities.
- Check in on households with pets, the elderly, or vulnerable residents during festivities.
Broader Benefits of Choosing Kind Celebrations
Reducing or eliminating fireworks not only protects pets, but also:
- Supports wildlife and livestock, which can suffer unseen stress and injury.
- Reduces environmental harm, as fireworks contribute to air and noise pollution.
- Fosters more inclusive celebrations, allowing all community members — including animals — to enjoy the season with less fear and disruption.
South Coast Communities Can Lead the Way
Along the KwaZulu‑Natal South Coast, where beachside festivities and holiday gatherings are part of the season’s rhythm, mindful celebrations can make a real difference:
- Encourage silent or low-noise events at beachfront functions.
- Promote pet-friendly New Year’s activities.
- Partner with local councils to highlight noise guidelines.
Choosing alternatives like light installations, music events, or community countdowns not only keeps animals safe but also enhances the visitor experience for tourists visiting the coast over the holidays.
Quick Tips for Pet Owners
- Create a quiet retreat area indoors before celebrations begin.
- Keep pets in familiar rooms with soft lighting and soothing sounds.
- Take pets for a walk earlier in the day, before festivities start.
- Use pheromone diffusers or calming wraps if recommended by your vet.
Planning ahead ensures both pets and people can enjoy a happier, healthier start to the New Year.
This New Year’s Eve, make a different kind of noise
This New Year’s Eve, make a different kind of noise — one that celebrates safely without causing fear or harm. Whether you’re a pet owner, tourist, local business, or concerned citizen, your choices matter.
Together, South Africans can enjoy joyful, animal-friendly celebrations that reflect kindness, compassion, and community spirit.
Want to do more?
Visit FOUR PAWS South Africa to learn more about animal welfare campaigns and discover ways to make your community celebrations safer and more compassionate.
