Hellboy Says ‘Hell No’ to Fireworks: Ron Perlman Stars in New PETA PSA to Keep Animals Safe on the Fourth
Hollywood tough guy Ron Perlman isn’t afraid of anything—except for the ear-shattering blasts of fireworks. That’s why, ahead of the Fourth of July, the Hellboy and Sons of Anarchy star is sharing his vulnerable side and sparking a conversation about the stress and fear fireworks cause companion animals in a campaign for PETA.
In PETA’s quirky new video, the actor scrambles for cover at the sound of fireworks—just like dogs do—to remind everyone to purge the pyrotechnics and keep their companions safe during Independence Day displays.
“Fireworks scare the (bleep) out of me. They also scare the (bleep) out of dogs and cats and wildlife, so please, don’t set off any personal fireworks,” Perlman says in the video.
Snuggled up with his companion pup on the couch, Perlman doles out tips for keeping dogs calm during fireworks shows.
“And during fireworks shows, stay home with your animals,” he says. “Close the windows and curtains, turn on the TV or a loud fan to drown out the noises that are terrifying to animals.”
In an accompanying Q&A video, Perlman joins his wife, actress Allison Dunbar, and their dogs Harrington, Ice Cream Cake, Marvin, and Grandpa for an anti-fireworks fireside chat.
Fireworks Aren’t Festive for Dogs, Cats, and Wildlife
The Fourth of July is one of the worst times of the year for companion animals and wildlife alike—and more animals go missing on this date than on any other. Terrified dogs often climb, break, or dig their way out of wherever they are as they frantically try to escape the chaos. Many dogs arrive at shelters with bloody paws or broken bones, while others are hit by cars or strangled when their collars become caught on fences. Frightened deer have run onto roadways, and birds have abandoned their nests and crashed into homes, windows, and each other.
How YOU Can Help Animals on the Fourth of July
Simply keeping your companion animals home may not be enough to keep them safe. If you have companion cats or dogs, stay home during fireworks shows, distract them with lots of love and attention, and make sure that they are wearing collars with current identification tags and that they’re microchipped.
If your dog or cat is prone to anxiety, think about investing in a Thundershirt—a gentle, pressure-based vest that can help your dog or cat feel more secure during fireworks. It’s a simple, drug-free way to ease anxiety and keep your companion feeling safe when the booms begin.
You can also help by letting others know that fireworks are harmful to animals. Talk to your friends, family, neighbors, and local decision-makers about alternatives to loud, booming displays that frighten animals and trigger those with PTSD, including veterans. Silent fireworks and cutting-edge, visually dazzling laser or drone shows are safe alternatives to loud explosions, and they’re just as awe-inspiring!
