Guy Fawkes is a spectacle of fabulous fireworks for some but misery for pets, farm animals and wildlife.

A pawprint petition has been launched, and Kiwis and their fur babies are encouraged to visit their local Animates store to sign and participate.

Both humans and pets are encouraged to sign the petition.

“Each year, our stores and vet clinics are flooded with stories of stressed-out pets and worried owners,” Animates CEO Neil Cowie said.

“Fireworks cause significant fear and distress to animals, compromising their welfare,” SPCA chief scientific officer Dr Arnja Dale said.

In a 2019 report, 74.4% of pet owners noticed their animals showing fear during fireworks, with common behaviours like hiding (70.8%), shivering (54.3%) and cowering (44.5%). Surprisingly, 71.9% of owners did not seek help for their frightened pets, instead keeping them indoors (46%) or providing comfort (28.2%).

“In addition to these harms, wildlife and other animals are sometimes targeted and injured or abused deliberately with fireworks,” Dale said.

Each year, Kiwis raise awareness about the impact of fireworks and private sales, yet sales persist. A recent survey showed that nearly 75% of Kiwis favour banning backyard fireworks, but the government has not acted on this issue.

“Every year, we see dogs shivering in fear or cowering in the corner. Fireworks are terrifying for them, and it’s heartbreaking to watch. We’re urging the public to stand up for our animals and push for a ban on backyard fireworks,” owner of Woodlands Dog Retreat, Angela Mace, said.

Fireworks negatively impact native birds, wildlife, horses, and zoo animals. Horses may panic, causing injuries or death, while birds can become traumatized and abandon their nests. This threat also extends to livestock, affecting areas beyond local neighbourhoods.

To find out more about the Pawprint Petition: Ban Private Sales of Fireworks on Behalf of the Animals of NZ, visit: https://pawprintpetition.co.nz.