AS firework season approaches, the Kloof and Highway SPCA appealed to the community to prepare and to take steps to protect your pets. Advice for the firework period:
1. Ensure that your animals have some form of identity, for example a collar and tag and/or microchip. Microchipping can be done by your local vet or at the Kloof and Highway SPCA.
2. If your pets are particularly frightened of fireworks, staying at home with your pets is advised. Alternatively, ensure someone is able to watch them for you or keep your pets inside and draw the curtains and play calming music.
3. Entertain your pets by giving them something to chew on or play with. Catnip is a great idea for cats.
4. Consult your vet or local SPCA for calming medication. Do not give medication intended for humans to animals.
The SPCA does not enforce the laws relating to the use of fireworks. The Explosives Act is enforced by the SAPS, to which 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 especially appeal to everyone celebrating Diwali or Guy Fawkes to use those fireworks without the loud bags to be considerate of animals, their neighbours and community members who may also suffer, and to abide by the laws and regulations pertaining to the use of fireworks,” said Lisa Gadd, Kloof SPCA PRO.
She added, “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, for example.”
Stray and lost animals can be brought through to the Kloof and Highway SPCA standby kennels 24 hours a day.
For injured animals or emergencies, contact 031 764 1212/3 during office hours or 073 335 9322 after-hours.
