Keep your pets safe, warns SPCA
The Kloof and Highway SPCA has urged all pet owners to take the necessary precautionary measures to ensure their pets remain safe during the fireworks season.
KLOOF and Highway SPCA’s Janine Kyle has urged the community to prepare for the fireworks during the festive season and to take necessary steps to protect their pets. Kyle said the loud bangs that very often accompany fireworks cause animals great distress, fear and suffering as their hearing is far more acute than that of humans.
ALSO READ: eThekwini Municipality releases fireworks protocol
“Some animals cause injury to themselves by jumping through glass windows, over spiked fences or by running into traffic,” she said.
The SPCA noted that it did not enforce the City’s by-laws 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 by-laws regulate the discharge of fireworks on private property.
“In some municipalities, permits are required; in other areas, there is a dispensation for fireworks between specified times. We appeal to everyone celebrating to use fireworks without the loud bangs, to be considerate of animals, their neighbours and community members who also may suffer, and to abide by the laws and regulations pertaining to the use of fireworks,” said Kyle.
Metro can be contacted on 031 311 6000. Stray and lost animals can be taken to the Kloof and Highway SPCA’s standby kennels which are open 24 hours.
For any lost pets, contact the NPO’s reception on 031 764 1212 from 08:00 to 15:00 on Monday to Friday, and from 08:00 to 12:00 on Saturday.
For any animals in distress, animal-welfare concerns, animal-cruelty complaints or unwanted animals, contact the Kloof and Highway SPCA inspectorate during office hours on 031 764 1212, or alternatively email controller@kloofspca.co.za. For after-hours emergencies, contact 073 335 9322.
Reduce the amount of stress pets experience during the fireworks season by:
– Ensuring that your animals have some form of identity tracker, for example, a collar and tag with the owner’s contact details on the tag, and/or microchip.
– If your pets are particularly frightened of fireworks, stay at home with your pets.
– Alternatively, try and ensure that someone is able to watch them for you.
– Keep your pets inside, draw the curtains and play calming music or the radio.
– Entertain your pets by giving them something 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.
