The chaos of fireworks during New Year's Eve poses significant stress not only to domestic pets but also to wildlife. Organizations like the German Animal Welfare Association are advocating for a ban on fireworks near animal shelters and other facilities to protect vulnerable animals.
Pet owners are advised to keep dogs leashed in populated areas days before the celebration to prevent them from panicking and running away due to sudden loud noises. This precaution can help avoid accidents caused by startled pets.
Wild animals are also affected; horses in fields may panic and escape, while birds like wild geese exhibit fear-driven behaviors, retreating hundreds of kilometers to safer areas after being startled by fireworks. Research from Max Planck Institute indicates that these disturbances can lead to long-term behavioral changes in wildlife.
To mitigate these effects, the German Animal Welfare Association urges the public to refrain from using fireworks in sensitive areas, including near forests, bird protection zones, and animal care facilities.