It’s almost that time of the year that will see sounds of fireworks filling the atmosphere, bringing joy to many, but terror to animals.

According to Dr Fiona Mc Evilly, a veterinarian at Klipfontein Animal Clinic, while fireworks bring excitement to people, they have devastating effects on animals, both companion and wild animals.

While they cause stress, disorientation, and can cause parents to abandon their nests and young ones to wild animals, Dr Fiona said they cause great stress, fear, and anxiety to dogs and cats.

“Most cats and dogs try to hide and show signs of stress, restlessness, and panting. Others may become so anxious that they jump through windows, chew through doors, or even dig under palisades,” she said, adding that as a result, they end up getting trauma-related injuries such as open wounds, bite wounds, or worse, they could end up being hit by a car as they escape their yards.

Fireworks will be allowed at the following venues

The Emalahleni Local Municipality released a list of designated areas for discharging fireworks on December 31 with the aim of promoting a safe and healthy environment for eMalahleni.

The areas include:
· Lynnville Tennis Court
· Open space next to Sy-Mthimunye Stadium
· Empumelelweni sports field
· Emsagweni sports field (next to Extension 14)
· Ga-Nala sports field (next to the civic centre)
· Ga-Nala rugby field
· Pine Ridge Stadium
· Eric Liberty sports field
· Thubelihle sports field
· Hlalanikahle sports field (Hlalanikahle Extension 4)
· Puma Stadium
· Phola open space (next to Phola Police Station)

“Fireworks should definitely not be used in residential areas. I personally would prefer if all fireworks were banned. In my eyes, they do more harm than good,” Dr Fiona concluded.

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