Holiday celebrations often bring joy to people, but they pose a significant challenge to animal welfare. The intense noise generated by fireworks interferes with the behavior of several species, causing fear, escape, disorientation and even accidents.

Ranna Sousa, coordinator of the Veterinary Medicine course at Faculdade Anhanguera, highlights that, from dogs and cats, which are the main domestic animals, to farm and wild animals can suffer during this period of the year.

“The auditory sensitivity of petssuch as cats and dogs, can lead to extreme fear and anxiety reactions, while wild and farm animals can suffer severe stress, resulting in dangerous behavior and health problems”, he comments.

To reduce this damage, it is important to adopt measures that make the environment more stable and safe. “Promoting awareness about the negative effects of fireworks can encourage alternative celebration practices, ensuring the well-being of all animals during the festivities”, reinforces the teacher.

Next, understand how fireworks impact different species:

1. Dogs

Dogs are known for their hearing sensitivity and fireworks cause extreme fear, anxiety and stress. Loud and unexpected noises can lead to behaviors such as shaking, excessive barking, attempts to escape and even health problems such as tachycardia and seizures.

2. Gatos

Although cats are also affected by fireworks, their reactions are often less visible. They tend to hide in safe places when scared, but the stress caused by noise can lead to behavioral and health problems, such as loss of appetite and aggression.

3. Wild animals

Os wild animals are especially vulnerable to fireworks. Birds can abandon their nests, leaving eggs and chicks unprotected. Mammals, such as rabbits and deer, can panic and flee, increasing the risk of accidents. Furthermore, the stress caused by fires often affects the reproduction and survival of these animals.

4. Farm Animals

Farm animals such as horses, cows and chickens can also be negatively impacted by fireworks. Noise causes panic and can lead to dangerous behavior, such as escape attempts and collisions. In extreme cases, the stress affects milk and egg production.

By Letícia Zuim Gonzalez