Are one of these your dog?

Fewer furry casualties because of fireworks

November 10, 2016

Adéle Bloem 2 minutes read

Diwali and Guy Fawkes Day came and went with only a few bangs being heard.

According to Michelle Kok, training inspector at the Roodepoort SPCA, they did not have to go out to properties to rescue animals injured or frightened by fireworks. “As far as I know, it was quiet, and we did not have a big increase in firework-related injuries or rescues – which came as a surprise,” she said. They did, however receive a few calls from residents who found lost and scared pets and even took a few of these in at the SPCA.

“We also received calls from owners who had lost their pets, not just during the fireworks period, but also during the recent storms,” she said.

The personnel at Community Led Animal Welfare (Claw) in Durban Deep confirmed that, even though they did tend to a few injured animals, they could not be sure whether this was a result of the fireworks or had another cause.

“We would like to encourage everyone who might have lost a pet around this time to contact us and even visit the kennels to see if we have your pet. It is also advisable to visit all veterinarians in your area to find out whether your pet was handed in there,” Michelle said.

Michelle urges pet owners to do the following, in the event of a lost pet:
– The most important thing to remember is to not only search near your home. You should broaden your search to at least a 30 kilometre radius, because you never know where your pet could have been found and handed in.
– Make lost posters and put them up.
– Contact all the SPCAs and veterinarians – not just your local ones – to see if your pet might have been handed in there.

It seems that people were more considerate towards their furry friends this year when it came to letting off fireworks, and both the animals and the shelters are truly thankful.

If you have lost a pet recently, look at these photos to see if one of them is yours. To claim your dog at the Roodepoort SPCA, you need to take a photo (as proof of ownership). There will be a pound fee payable before you may take your dog home. The Roodepoort SPCA can be contacted on 011 672 0448 for any further information or queries.