Alberton SPCA cautions against fireworks
As the festive season approaches with people said to use fireworks, the Alberton SPCA has warned pet owners to keep animals inside their homes.
According to Sipho Letsoalo, Alberton SPCA inspector, firecrackers can have a dire effect on animals.
He said this can lead them to run into the streets and possibly get run over by cars.
“On Diwali, we had complaints and a lot of stray animals coming in. People should turn on their TVs or radios to drown out the noise of the fireworks out.
“They should also keep animals inside to avoid animals running out or falling into pools and hurting themselves getting stuck in fences and such. We also advise that they get collars in case a pet gets lost, it makes it easier for us to identify the animals and owners,” he said.
Veterinarian and owner of Brackenhurst Veterinary Hospital Dr Ajit Bholla told the RECORD that loud sounds may cause noise phobias to domestic pets.
“Our pets can also suffer from noise phobias just like we do. With the arrival of our highveld thunderstorms, together with the recent celebrations of Diwali and Guy Fawkes day, please be considerate of the furry members of our family and community,” he said.
He defined noise phobia as an exaggerated response to loud sounds.
“This can manifest in many ways such as trying to run away from the noise, pacing, salivation, increased aggression, destructive behaviour and self-trauma. Early detection and treatment is the key to dealing with pets that suffer from noise phobia,” said Bholla.
Bholla highlighted that there is a range of medications available from local vets, some of which are available over the counter to help domestic pets.
Brackenhurst Veterinary Hospital shared its top tips to keep furry friends safe this festive season:
• Avoid the exposure to the event if possible.
• Create a ‘safe’ environment for your pet. This should be a familiar space, such as a dark room with the curtains drawn and lots of furnishings to absorb the sound. This safe zone should also be easily accessible, with a water bowel and lots of blankets to allow the pet to burrow to escape from the noise.
• Ideally, try to be home with your pets during the anticipated event.
• Put on music, preferably classical or the television to drown out the noise.
• Some pets respond well to ‘thunder shirts’ which may aid in calming the pet down.
• Behavioural modification will also aid in controlling the fear, such as counter conditioning and desensitisation to the stimulus. Please contact your local veterinarian or animal behaviourist for more information.
• Never punish the fearful behaviour as this will just exacerbate the situation.
