Summer fireworks can traumatize pets and cause wildlife to flee

Studies suggest up to 50 per cent of dogs are afraid of fireworks. Shutterstock

Fireworks have become a fixture of many celebrations around the world, from weddings to national holidays. But there are many among us, including the furry, feathered and finned, who feel fear with every thundering boom.

Animal caretakers, wildlife rehabilitators and fire services see firsthand the damaging — and sometimes fatal — effects whenever and wherever fireworks are deployed.