Every year many horses suffer as a direct result of fireworks being let off in close proximity to their stables.  In extreme cases death, injury or damage to property can ensue.  Fireworks must not be set off near horses or any livestock in fields or close to their stables.   It is a criminal offence pursuant to section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 for a person to cause an animal to suffer when he knew or ought reasonably to have known that the animal would suffer unnecessarily.  The maximum penalty for this offence is imprisonment for a term not exceeding 51 weeks, or/and a fine not exceeding £20,000.

Written by Nathalie Bull, Barrister at New Walk Chambers, specialising in Equine Law.