Fireworks and your pets
Pet owners are asked to visit their local veterinarians well in advance to find out about calming products which are available and recommended.
Guy Fawkes, celebrated on November 5, Christmas Eve celebrated on December 24 and New Year’s Eve celebrated on December 31 are all days on which fireworks may be discharged.
Residents with pets are asked to be prepared in the event that celebrations may include fireworks.
Pet owners are asked to visit their local veterinarians well in advance to find out about calming products which are available and recommended.
Tranquillizers may be prescribed in the form of tablets or a syrup, but care needs to be taken in certain breeds and older pets.
Also find out which homeopathic products are available.
Herbal remedies differ from homeopathic remedies in the method, preparation and mode of action.
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.
In addition, pet owners should also take note of the following tips:
- Â Try to remain at home during these times.
- Â Ensure pets are securely locked away in a place where they are comfortable.
- Â Ensure pets are wearing collars and discs, have microchips and that the details are up to date.
- Â Close the curtains and play background music to help mask the unusual noises.
- Â Try to remain calm and do not show fear yourself when the crackers go off.
- Â 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
According to the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL), residents are also asked to take note of 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 by-laws and find out whether there have been any amendments.
Fireworks are only allowed to be used during the following designated times; on Christmas Eve from 7pm to 10pm, News Year’s Eve from 11pm to 1am, New Year’s Day from 7pm to 10pm, Hindu New Year’s Day from 7pm to 10pm, Diwali from 7pm to 10pm and on Guy Fawkes Day from 7pm to 10pm.
There seems to be confusion around the use of fireworks in a residential area. Please can you give it to us in simple terms law abiding terms, our neighbors celebrate diwali every year from their back garden. They set of massive fireworks and we call the police every year to shut them down. Our animals go mad even though we use vet tranquilizers. The police come out and do a great job but as soon as they turn out the drive way these guys start at it again. What is the law on use of fireworks in a residential area please.