Fireworks season, everyone has a part to play

The fireworks season is almost upon us. So, to prepare our readers we have complied a roundup of the municipal bylines and tips to reduce your pet's stress levels during these times.

FIREWORKS season is around the corner and it is important for the community not to forget the rules and regulations set by the City on how to enjoy fireworks safely and responsibly.

Municipal bylaw guidelines allow for fireworks to be set off during the day and into the night on Guy Fawkes and Diwali; and from 11.45pm on December 31 until 12.15am of the New Year.

Conditions residents need to adhere to

Low-hazard fi reworks, such as fountains, lawn lights and sparkles can be lit in private gardens.
Fireworks such as air bombs, supersonic bangs, sound shells, fountain whistles and screeches are prohibited as they cause a disturbance and are a nuisance to neighbours.
The bylaw stipulates that children under 16 years must be properly supervised by an adult when letting off fireworks.
Fireworks should be detonated away from hospitals, clinics, old age/nursing homes, animal welfare and petrol stations.
Fireworks should not be pointed towards any person.

What about pets?

When local pet owners were asked on Highway Mail’s Facebook page what plans they had to protect their pets during the fi reworks season, Westville resident, Rowena Landsberg, who owns two
dogs and two cats said, “I ensure the safety of our pets during the discharge of fireworks by keeping them inside and close to us and their familiar surroundings.

We ensure all windows are closed and our music or TV is playing a little louder than usual. If our Collie and Chow becomes too anxious we give them calming tablets.”

Landsberg said she continues to support the complete ban on all fireworks.

The Kloof and Highway SPCA’s tips to reduce stress

1. Ensure your animals have some form of identity for example a collar and tag and/or microchip.
2. If your pets are particularly frightened of fireworks, staying at home with your pets would be first prize, or 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

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