Public should be aware of the stress fireworks can cause to livestock
On November 5, many across the country will be attending a bonfire event. Although an occasion, the industry has asked people to be mindful of the harm it can do to livestock.
NFU chief land management adviser Sam Durham said: "Fireworks are associated with celebrations, and it can sometimes be easy to overlook the knock on affects they might have on others. It is important those responsible for letting off fireworks consider the consequences they can have on livestock, agricultural land and the surrounding environment.
"We encourage anyone planning firework displays in rural areas this November to warn the neighbouring farmers in advance and look to ensure that fireworks are not let off near animals."
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Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) also urged people to be responsible when using fireworks.
An FUW spokesperson said: "This time of year brings a few issues with it for our farming community, pets and livestock. Fireworks unfortunately still present a big problem for us and thousands of animals suffer every year as a result of fireworks being let off. With this in mind, we would like to remind the public about the responsible use of fireworks and to ask them to follow the fireworks code at all times. It is a welfare issue for animals and also a health and safety issue for people. Do not let ignorance turn your bonfire night into a real-life horror story."
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According to the National Sheep Association (NSA), sheep are at risk of stress, and aside from spooking livestock, falling debris can also play havoc.
An NSA spokesperson said: "There is little doubt that traditional fireworks will cause some level of stress to animals including livestock and farm dogs.
"Sheep in particular are animals that can be badly affected by stress and with Guy Fawkes night coinciding with the breeding season for rams and ewes the noise from loud fireworks could contribute to issues including miscarriage from early pregnancies or damage to valuable stock at a critical time if they are to flee and potentially injure themselves. Sheepdogs are often also incredibly sensitive to loud noises with some research indicating that herding breeds are more susceptible to stress from sound.
"Aside from the stress from the unexplained lights and sounds, debris from fireworks falling onto livestock grazing also poses a risk to animals. Consideration should be given to this if anyone is planning an event with fireworks, not only this Guy Fawkes night but also year-round as fireworks are a frequent addition to many cultural celebrations."
