ONE stray kitten was taken in to the Kloof and Highway SPCA’s after hours kennels at the start of fireworks season on Thursday, 5 November during Guy Fawkes.
The local animal welfare organisation appealed to Highway residents to be proactive during the remainder of fireworks season, (Saturday, 14 November and Thursday, 31 December) and to take the necessary steps to protect their pets.
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“The loud bangs that 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 as examples,” said the organisation’s inspectorate manager, Sue Noakes.
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Tips to help reduce the stress you and your pets experience during fireworks season:
– Ensure that your animals have some form of identity such as a collar and tag that includes contact details, and/or microchip.
“Microchipping can be done by your local vet or contact us on 031 764 1212/3 to get your pet microchipped. Our SPCA is currently running a special on microchipping up to 14 November at R150 per chip,” said Noakes.
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– If pets are particularly frightened of fireworks, stay at home with your pets to comfort them. Alternatively, ensure that someone is able to watch them on your behalf.
– Keep your pets inside, draw the curtains and play calming music on the radio.
– Entertain your pets. Give them a treat to chew on or play with. Catnip is a great idea for cats.
– Consult your vet or local SPCA for calming medication.
“Do not give medication intended for humans to animals,” warned Noakes.
The NPO noted that it did not enforce the City’s bylaws that relate to the use of fireworks.
“The Explosives Act is enforced by the SAPS, to whom matters of concern need to be reported. This Act covers the sale of fireworks as well as issues relating to the discharge of fireworks in public places. Local bylaws regulate the discharge of fireworks on private property. In some municipalities permits are required, in other areas there is dispensation for fireworks between specified times. We appeal to everyone celebrating to use 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 Noakes.
Contact Metro SAPS on 031 311 6000. Stray and lost animals can be dropped off at the Kloof and Highway SPCA’s standby kennels, 24 hours a day. For injured animals or emergencies, contact 031 764 1212/3 during office hours or on 073 335 9322 after hours.
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