Fireworks: Share these tips to keep your pets safe before the Diwali and Guy Fawkes festivities begin

Fireworks can be extremely terrifying for some animals and having your dog bolt into the night is pretty frightening for you as an owner. It is especially dangerous for dogs, who can become injured trying to get away and frightened dogs are more likely to run into traffic, where they can be injured or killed. Dogs can become so scared that they break through fences and gates, get lost and wind up in shelters as strays.

Making sure your pets are safe and secure during any festive occasion where fireworks are used is just another part of being a responsible pet owner.

It would obviously be preferable to celebrate any occasion without fireworks, because many dogs are tortured by the noise.

NEVER be tempted to take your dog to places where there will be fireworks.

Pixabay

Here are a few tips you can try to help keep them safe:-

• Take a current photo of your pet, just in case.
• Exercise your dog early in the day – before parties and festivities begin.
• Create a peaceful environment at home. Play soothing music and draw the curtains (or blinds) to dampen outside sights and sounds. Have a television, radio or fan on to help drown out fireworks noise. If your pet seems anxious, try soothing him with a calm voice.
• Even if your pet is indoors with you, double-check yard gates and doors to make sure pets cannot escape.
• If your dog has a special bed or place, put him in there and cover him with a blanket to make him feel more secure.
• Try giving your dog a bone or something that takes time and concentration and distracts him.
• Make certain pets are wearing identification, including the name and current telephone number of the owner. Confirm your pet’s microchip registration information is registered or updated. All of your pets should have collars, ID tags and microchips, even indoor-only cats. A door or gate could be left open accidentally during the celebrations, or your pet could escape if he becomes frightened during fireworks. Collars, ID tags and microchips are the best way to ensure that if your pet gets lost, he will be returned to you.
• If you know from past experiences that your pet will suffer severe anxiety caused by fireworks despite your best efforts to prevent it, talk to your veterinarian or the SPCA about giving your pet a mild tranquiliser. There are a number of medications available to help decrease anxiety and relax your pet.
• Make sure all pets are safely indoors before the fireworks start.
• Keep curious pets away from fireworks, flames, sparklers, matches and lighter fluid.

What should you do if your pet gets lost? Walk or drive around your neighbourhood to look. Be sure to call out your pet’s name, but he may not come to you if he is frightened. Contact local shelters, veterinary clinics and call the SPCA as soon as possible.

Numbers to keep handy:

• Lower South Coast SPCA – 039-317 3362, 039-312 0962 or 083-222 6354
• Hibberdene Veterinary – 039 699 1023
• Port Shepstone Vet Hospital – 039 682 2433
• Shelly Beach Vet Hospital – 039 315 1215
• Margate Vet Hospital – 039 312 2151
• Harmony Hill Rescue Haven – 082 719 0838
• SCAR (Second Chance Avian Rescue) – 083 246 6765

Information from https://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/

and  https://www.petfinder.com/

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram

For news straight to your phone, add us on WhatsApp 082 421 6033