Ensure your pet is safe during fireworks
Animal owners are encouraged to ensure their animal’s safety and comfort.
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPA) has called for restraint and consideration from residents during the holiday season.
Guy Fawkes and Diwali are fast approaching and the organisation said reckless individuals are using both events to utilise fireworks in an anti-social manner.
In a statement, the council said Diwali is the Festival of Light and its beauty is inherent, but loud bangs form no part of it.
“Guy Fawkes has no relevance to South Africa and it is questioned why it is celebrated at all,” read the statement.
Animal owners are encouraged to ensure their animal’s safety and comfort.
“The hearing of animals is far more acute and sensitive than that of humans. If a dog can hear a grasshopper eat, imagine what a firework sounds like. Stay with your pets. Keep them indoors. If an animal is sensitive by nature, then consult your veterinarian for advice. Do not give medication intended for humans to animals and above all, ensure that animals are not in danger of harming themselves if they bolt – even indoors, or if they react when a firework is discharged in the area. Despite regulations and appeals for calm, this can occur,” said the NSPCA.
Residents are also reminded to ensure their pets have identification.
“Hooligan, dangerous and illegal behaviour relating to fireworks needs to be reported to the police. On behalf of the SPCA movement in South Africa, we extend good wishes to everyone celebrating Diwali and we trust that this year, the celebrations will be in accordance with the true spirit of the Festival of Light – beauty, light, love and above all, compassion,” said the organisation.
