RSPCA CYMRU is issuing advice for pet owners in the run up to bonfire night.
Sadly, it is not just companion animals that are affected by fireworks. Farm animals also can be easily frightened by loud noises and sudden flashes of bright light, which can startle them and cause them to injure themselves on fencing, farm equipment or, in the case of housed animals, on fixtures and fittings within the house.
It is also likely that fireworks will cause a disturbance to wild animals such as waterfowl and is likely to cause suffering or distress, depending on the distance from the fireworks and the noise level. Furthermore, wildlife can be burnt alive after making their home in bonfires.
Lisa Richards, RSPCA welfare expert , said: “Countless pet owners will be dreading the run up to bonfire night because of the distress it causes to their animals.
“But there are ways to help your pets learn to be less afraid of loud noises. Planning ahead and speaking to your vet about the options available is a great start.
“Firework phobia is a treatable condition; pets do not have to suffer in misery every year.
“There are also some simple things worried owners can do to help their pets cope, including making sure dogs and cats are indoors when fireworks are likely to be set off, that they’re microchipped in case they do escape, trying to mask the noise of the fireworks by turning on the TV or music, and providing pets with a safe place to hide at all times.
“Small animals that live outside should have lots of extra bedding so they can burrow and some of their enclosure could be covered by a blanket for extra insulation and sound-proofing.”
RSPCA Cymru, along with South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, is urging pet owners to keep their cats and dogs safe indoors when fireworks are likely to be set off to prevent injury or escape.
Matt Jones, Head of Fire Crime at South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, commented: “We understand that fireworks are an exciting addition to Halloween and Bonfire celebrations, but we ask people to be aware of the risks involved. We encourage our communities to attend organised displays at local venues and to not be tempted to buy fireworks from friends or colleagues over a reputable retailer; these illegal fireworks pose a danger to you and your family, as well as potentially your home.
“We ask our communities to avoid placing their rubbish outside the night before collection to reduce deliberate refuse fires and to report any suspicious activity to the police on 101. Fireworks can also cause concern for our pets, so we hope our communities follow the advice of experts like RSPCA Cymru to keep their animals safe during this period.”
RSPCA Cymru is also asking organisers of firework events to be vigilant and give plenty of notice to people in the area. They would also ask for organisers to show some consideration and not let off any fireworks too close to places where animals are – for example, farm animals or zoos.
Wildlife can also be burned to death by bonfires so organisers should check them before lighting to make sure there are no wild animals using them as a hiding place. It helps to build the bonfire by hand and as near as possible to the time of lighting to ensure hedgehogs and other wildlife are not sleeping in the pile when it is lit.
Sky lanterns can also be popular at this time of year, but can harm wildlife, livestock and other animals by causing injuries that lead to suffering and a slow painful death. RSPCA Cymru strongly advises against their use and recommends that harmless alternatives are sought to prevent injury, suffering and fatality of animals.
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