As fireworks season approaches, the Kloof and Highway SPCA appeals to the community to prepare and to 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. More family pets will run away from home during holidays involving fireworks than any other days of the year.
We would like to offer some advice which will help reduce the amount of stress your pets experiences over this period.
• As a precautionary measure make sure your animals have identification tags or microchips to ensure that they are returned safely when they are found. Microchipping can be done by your local vet or contact us on 031 764 1212/3 to get your animal microchipped.
• If possible, stay home with your animals.
• If you can’t be home with your animals, keep them inside. Make sure that your pets have access to their favourite “safe place” or find a quiet, comfortable, enclosed room where your pets can “hide” if they feel the need to. Ensure that they cannot escape or break through a window or slip out of a door.
• Mask noise by drawing curtains and playing calming soothing music at a reasonable volume
• Put familiar and comforting things around them such as toys, baskets and so on.
• Provide them with something to do and keep them occupied such as giving your dog a toy or giving your cat lots of catnip or a catnip toy.
• If your pets do react badly to fireworks, then seek professional advice from your veterinarian ahead of time.
• Ensure your pets have a hearty and nutritious meal around nightfall. This will make them more likely to be sleepy.
If you are unsure as to how your pets will be affected, note that animals that are sensitive to thunderstorms are likely to react similarly to the noise of fireworks. If you are at all unsure of your pet’s reaction it is best to take precautionary measures.
The SPCA does not enforce the Laws relating to the use of fireworks. The Explosives Act is enforced by the SAPS to whom matters of concern need to be reported. This Act covers sale of fireworks as well as issues relating to the discharge of fireworks in public places. Local by-laws regulate the discharge of fireworks on private property. In some Municipalities, permits are required, in other areas there is dispensation for Diwali between specified times.
We appeal to those using fireworks to be mindful of animals – not forgetting wild life, their neighbours and community members who may also suffer and to abide by the laws and regulations pertaining to the use of fireworks.
The Animals Protection Act clearly states that “it is illegal for any person to terrify any animal”. Any deliberate act of frightening or harming animals involving the use of fireworks may lead to prosecution under the Animals Protection Act, 71 of 1962.
Stray and lost animals can be brought through to the Kloof and Highway SPCA standby kennels 24 hours a day.
For injured animals or animal related emergencies please call 031-7641212/3 office