Fireworks and crackers affect animals – not only dogs and cats – much more than we can anticipate. Dogs panic – they run, hide under cars, jump over fences and squeeze through tiny dangerous places to escape the trauma. Animals have no way of grasping that the loud noise is only in the air and not something that will cause them harm. Even birds are affected, not only by the sounds but bright lights too. Dogs hearing is so much more sensitive than humans; if we get a fright, how much more intense is it for the animals?
With New Year’s celebrations ahead, here are some tips to keep in mind to help keep your four-legged friends safe:
* Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound.
* Keep animals indoors or where they feel safe.
* Put on some music or the TV to mask the sound.
* Create hiding places around your home where they feel safe.
* You can leave your dog or cat in a cage, which you can cover with blankets to make it soundproof – just be mindful of the temperature and only do it while the crackers are going off.
* Keeping your animals indoors and with you will definitely help.
* Make sure your pets have a tag on just in case they do run away
*Consult your vet beforehand and get medication to calm them if necessary.
* Be mindful always to seek lost or stray animals at your local SPCA. The local SPCA emergency number is 072 894 4061.
