Fireworks season is here again
Keep your pets safe from the loud bangs and bright flashes
The start of the fireworks season will be celebrated with loud bangs and bright flashes on Deepavali (18 October), Diwali (19 October) and Guy Fawkes (5 November).
And whilst these colourful displays might entertain humans, spare a thought for the animals. All animals – wild or domestic – experience the world through their senses: eyes, nose and ears.
It is natural for animals to be afraid of loud noises, which are amplified due to their acute hearing. Loud noises trigger their nervous systems, resulting in them becoming anxious or afraid. “Running away from these loud noises and bright flashes is a survival instinct, much the same way humans will flee from bombs,” said Mandy Cattanch, manager at the Roodepoort SPCA.
Fireworks are also experienced differently by animals, as the noise they make is different from other natural noises, like thunder. Fireworks are closer to the ground, more vibrant and are usually accompanied by sudden booms, flashes and burning smells. “Fireworks are an unnecessary waste of money and only scare the living daylight out of animals – domestic and wild – and cause unnecessary injuries,” Mandy said.
Fireworks are strictly controlled by the City of Johannesburg’s by-laws, and anyone violating them will face hefty fines issued by the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD).
In terms of the by-laws, only licensed dealers are allowed to sell fireworks, but only to those over the age of 16. The by-laws also state that no permission is needed to set off fireworks on days of cultural and religious celebrations, including Diwali and Guy Fawkes Day – however you may only do so during a stipulated period – from 7pm to 10pm.
According to Mandy, the community needs to know the following facts regarding fireworks and fireworks events:
• When fireworks are set off in an open area, they might not affect pets, but all other animals, including nesting birds, small mammals, horses, farm animals and wild creatures are suffering.
• Open-air traders cannot comply with the conditions of the Explosives Act 15 of 2003, and any attempts to sell or display fireworks in this manner should be reported to the police immediately.
• In terms of the Explosives Act, it is an offence to interfere with the packaging of fireworks, which must carry safety instructions. By reporting cases of this kind, you could be saving lives and preventing serious injuries.
• Even though organised fireworks events may be preferable to random use, it does not mean the SPCA or the public will approve. Applicants for professionally organised fireworks events need permits for which application must be made no later than 14 days prior to the event. By doing this, residents will have the opportunity to give their input.
“If you see an application for an event with fireworks, please inform the SPCA, so we can also give input. Residents who objects to these events should make submissions to the permit issuing authority and go public via local media, their ward councillors and community groups to make their concerns known,” said Mandy.
But, fireworks will still be lit and set off, and to help keep your pets safe, she gives the following tips:
– Ensure that all animals have identification
– Stay home with them or ensure that a caring person is with them at times when fireworks may be discharged
– In extreme circumstances, if you cannot be with them for a short time, (family crisis, emergency worker), then keep your pet/s in a room such as the kitchen or bathroom where the windows are higher
– Mask noise by drawing curtains and playing calming music at a reasonable volume
– Place familiar and comforting items such as toys, blankets, baskets etc near your pets
– Provide them with something to do such as a chewy item for dogs and catnip or a catnip toy for cats
– Provide a hearty meal before nightfall – this will often make them sleepy.
If your pets are known to react badly to fireworks, seek assistance from your veterinarian well ahead of time – do not leave this to the last minute. You should never give your pet tranquilisers prescribed for a different animal, human medication or alcohol.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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