Firework season looms
A list of important tips of possible ways to keep your pets safe during fireworks season.
AS fireworks season approaches, the Kloof and Highway SPCA appealed to the community to prepare and take steps to protect their pets.
The loud bangs which very often accompany fireworks cause animals great distress, fear and suffering as their hearing is far more acute than ours. Some animals cause injury to themselves by jumping through glass windows, over spiked fences or by running into traffic as examples.
The SPCA offered advice to help reduce the stress pets experiences over this period.
1. Please ensure that your animals have some form of identity for example a collar and tag or a microchip.
2. If your pets are particularly frightened of fireworks, staying at home with your pets would be highly recommended, alternatively ensure someone is able to watch them for you. Keep your pets inside and draw the curtains and play calming music.
3. Entertain your pets by giving them something to chew on or play with. Catnip is a great idea for cats.
4. Consult your vet or local SPCA for various calming medication.
“We especially appeal to everyone celebrating using fireworks to use fireworks without the loud bangs, to be considerate of animals, their neighbours and community members who may also suffer. We urge them to abide by the laws and regulations pertaining to the use of fireworks,” said Lisa Gadd, the PR outreach officer at the Kloof and Highway SPCA.
Stray and lost animals can be taken to the Kloof and Highway SPCA Standby kennels 24 hours a day. For injured animals or emergencies contact 031 764 1212/3 during office hours or 073 335 9322 after hours.
