As fireworks season approaches, the SPCA Amanzimtoti appeal to the community to prepare and to take steps to protect your pets.
The loud bangs which very often accompany fireworks cause animals great distress, fear and suffering as their hearing is far more acute than ours. Some animals cause injury to themselves by jumping through glass windows, over spiked fences or by running into traffic as examples.
We would like to offer some advice which will help reduce the amount of stress your pets experiences over this period.
- Please ensure that your animals have some form of identity for example a collar and tag or microchip.
- If your pets are particularly frightened of fireworks, staying at home with your pets would be first prize, alternatively to ensure someone is able to watch them for you or keep your pets inside and draw the curtains and play calming music.
- 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.
We especially appeal to everyone celebrating using fireworks to use those fireworks without the loud bangs, to be considerate of animals, their neighbours and community members who may also suffer and to abide by the laws and regulations pertaining to the use of fireworks.
Stray and lost animals can be brought through to the SPCA Amanzimtoti – 1 Nyati Road, Athlone Park.
Standby kennels 24 hours a day. For injured animals or emergencies please call 031-904 2424/5 during office hours or 072 122 7288 after hours.
