|
The RSPCA has long been a campaigner for more animal friendly firework
displays. Their advice is invaluable in ensuring your pet doesn't
have too traumatic a time on Bonfire Night.
RSPCA Advice
Protect
your pet when fireworks are around by following our animal-friendly
firework code:
Cats
- Keep your cat indoors.
- Close all windows and curtains and switch on music or the television
to drown out the noise.
- Leave your cat to take refuge in a corner if it wishes. Do not
try to tempt it out as this could cause more stress.
- Make sure your cat is microchipped to ensure it can be returned
to you if it escapes and becomes lost.
Dogs
- Exercise your dog during the day.
- Never walk your dog while fireworks are being let off.
- As with cats, keep your dog indoors, close the curtains and
play music to drown out the noise.
- Let your dog hide if it wants to take refuge under furniture
or in a corner.
- Make sure your dog is wearing a collar and tag and is microchipped
in case it bolts and becomes lost.
- To further minimise distress, ask your vet about the Dog Appeasing
Pheromone. It is a synthetic version of a chemical produced by
a bitch shortly after she has given birth. The pheromone reassures
newborn puppies and naturally calms them down. Scientists have
discovered it also helps calm older dogs as well.
- A simple plug-in diffuser that disperses the chemical into the
room is available at some veterinary practices. It is safe and
easy to use.
- If your dog is particularly prone to becoming very distressed,
discuss sedatives with your vet. Remember, these should be given
before the firework noise begins to allow them to take effect.
Small animals
Small animals - such as rabbits and guinea pigs - living outside
should not be forgotten. They can also become very stressed from
loud noise. Bring small animals indoors or into an outhouse or garden
shed to give them extra protection.
 |
| Horses
can bolt when they hear fireworks |
Horses
Horses often bolt from firework noise and become injured. Always
make sure horses, ponies and donkeys are stabled while fireworks
are being let off. Make sure fireworks are not in view by closing
the stable door.
Bonfires
Bonfires can be fatal for wildlife such as hedgehogs, which often
crawl in to them to sleep. Build bonfires as late as possible to
reduce this risk and make sure you disturb the foundations of the
bonfire to give any wildlife a chance to escape before it is lit.
Always clear up after a fireworks party - litter is hazardous to
domestic and wild animals.
REMEMBER, REMEMBER - never let off fireworks near animals
If you see an animal in need of help call the RSPCA's cruelty and
advice line on 0870 55 55 999.
|
