SPCA begs residents to be mindful

The SPCA in Heidelberg has appealed to the community to be mindful of animals this festive season.

As many know, and as the SPCA warns yearly, fireworks cause extreme stress and anxiety among animals.

“New Year’s Eve is a very stressful time of year when many pets sustain life-threatening injuries trying to escape the noise of fireworks,” said Donna Gertenbach of the Heidelberg SPCA.

“Anyone with animals is encouraged to be mindful of this and take precautions. If you’re not at home with your pets this festive season, ensure that your pets are being looked after by a reputable pet or a house sitter or boarding kennels.”

In preparation for the busiest time of the year for the society, the Heidelberg SPCA has advised pet owners to:

• Make sure your pet is microchipped, tagged or has some form of identification in case they get lost and disorientated.

• Get natural treatments or over-the-counter products from pet supply stores or talk to your vet about medical measures if your pets are highly sensitive or naturally anxious.

• Walk or exercise your pets so they are more relaxed during the evening.

• Keep your animals inside on New Year’s Eve, draw your curtains and blinds to help keep your pets calm.

• Stay with your pets as long as possible. Talk to them calmly and don’t scold them for bad behaviour.

• If you can’t stay with them, consider relocating them to a safe, familiar place for the night.

• Let them hide if they want to.

• If you have a baby animal experiencing this for the first time, you have a chance to train them to deal with the experience. Giving them toys or treats and engaging with your pet can help distract them from the noise.

The Heidelberg SPCA will be fully operational during the festive season, but the kennels will be closed on public holidays.

The society’s emergency number for these times is 071 994 9960.

The SPCA encourages residents to report any acts of cruelty or neglect to this number.