TAKE note of celebratory dates when fireworks are likely to be discharged, and make the necessary preparations to cater for your/ neighbours pets.
Recently communities celebrated Diwali on October 23 and reports by some residents stated that in some neighbourhoods, their pets were “traumatised” by the loud bangs of fire crackers.
Upcoming celebratory events where fireworks are a staple are Guy Fawkes Day on November 5, Christmas Eve on December 24 and News Year’s Eve on December 31.
Advice from Animal Anti Cruelty League is that pet owners should be prepared by visiting your local veterinarian in advance to find out which calming products are available and recommended. For example tranquilisers may be prescribed in the form of tablets or syrup, but care needs to be taken in certain breeds and older pets.
“Find out which homeopathic products are available, for example Eco-Fear (Eco-Vet range of products). Herbal remedies: these differ from homeopathic remedies in the method, preparation and mode of action such as serenity formula with 5-HTP (The Herbal Pet Range).
“Pheromones are naturally occurring chemicals that animals release in certain situations. In dogs they mimic the mother dog’s pheromones, which she produces to calm her puppies. Wall diffusers, sprays and collars impregnated with pheromones are becoming more widely used, like DAP range (CEVA Sante Animale) and Nurture CALM collar (Afrivet),” said AACL Heather Cowie.
Other precautionary measures that can be taken include trying to remain at home during these times, ensuring pets are securely locked away in a place where they are comfortable, ensuring they are wearing collars and discs, have microchips with the details up to date, closing the curtains and playing background music to help mask the unusual noises, trying to remain calm and not showing fear yourself when the crackers go off. Medication must be administered correctly and in sufficient time, usually a week in advance for supplements in order for the animal to receive the full benefit.
And finally, be aware of the laws regulating fireworks. The discharge of fireworks on a person’s private property is governed by local by-laws. Ensure that you check your local municipal’s by-laws and find out whether there have been any amendments. All cruelty to animals must be reported to your nearest animal welfare organization, as soon as possible.
Fireworks are only allowed to be used during the following designated times: Christmas Eve 19:00 to 22:00, News Year’s Eve 23:00 to 01:00, New Year’s Day 19:00 to 22:00, Hindu New Year’s Day 19:00 to 22:00, Diwali19:00 to 22:00 and Guy Fawkes Day 19:00 to 22:00.
