PREPARING YOUR PETS FOR FIREWORK SILLY SEASON
Guy Fawkes, Diwali, and even New Year’s Eve are quickly approaching, and unfortunately, fireworks are a common part of these celebrations. For pet owners, these holidays and occasions can be a source of anxiety, as the sound of fireworks often sends both domestic and wild animals into a state of panic or paralyzing fear.
The fear of fireworks, as well as storms, is a significant health concern for animals. Firework and storm phobias can cause extreme anxiety and discomfort, affecting not only our beloved pets but also their human family members who often feel helpless in alleviating their furry friends’ distress. Moreover, individuals with disabilities, war veterans, and those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can also be profoundly impacted by the noise and disruptions caused by fireworks.
THE PROBLEM WITH FIREWORKS
- Some studies suggest that 50% of cats and dogs suffer from firework stress and show that in phobic dogs, plasma cortisol (stress hormone) levels can jump over 200 percent from exposure to just an audio recording of a storm.
- Many animals desperately try to get out and even become disorientated when fireworks are set off. Sometimes they can’t find their way back home again or some hurt themselves trying to get over fences and through palisades.
- Some wildlife like birds and squirrels can abandon their young in a panic.
- Fireworks pollute the air and land! Some waterbirds and fish die when they eat firework debris.
- Fireworks can cause wildfires which can also lead to suffering and death for animals.
- The hearing of many animals, especially cats and dogs are more sensitive than it is in humans, so the explosions of fireworks are not only disturbing and frightening, but it can also damage their hearing. They can hear sounds as much as 5 to 10 times louder than humans.
- The day and even week after such an event the animal welfare organisations and shelters are flooded with stray and hurt animals. Studies suggest a 30-60% increase in lost pets after such an event.
- Your few minutes of fun cost animals their lives and cause tons of suffering!
FIREWORKS AND THE LAW
Fireworks in South Africa are controlled in terms of the Explosives Act 15 of 2003 (Explosives Act). There are also specific by-laws that regulate the use or exploding of fireworks.
Read the act on the SAPS website HERE
- Firework dealers need to be licensed in terms of the Explosives Act. Only individuals in possession of valid licenses may deal in the sale of fireworks.
- No fireworks may be sold by street hawkers or vendors.
- It is unlawful to set off fireworks without a certificate for authorization.
- It is also unlawful for any person to use or explode any firework within 500 meters of any building or any public thoroughfare. This includes any residential area.
If you notice these actions, please report them to your nearest police station! Don’t use fireworks nor support shops that sell them and businesses that display them for fun or allow them on their premises. If your company does it, please see management or organize a petition against it in your town.
TIPS FOR FIREWORK PREPARATION
There are things you can do to help your furry family members remain calm when fireworks may be used, but executing your plan before your pet becomes stressed is important.
- Use a teaspoon to knock on various surfaces around the house and follow up with a treat. This teaches your dog that startling sounds predict yummy food.
- Teach your dog to use a Kong or chew toy so that they can engage in this calming activity during the next fireworks occasion.
- Play with your dog during thunderstorms. Creating an association between play and the cracks of lightning will aid in generalizing a positive emotional state during fireworks.
- Make sure your microchip information is registered on more than one database and up-to-date as well as your animal having an up-to-date tag on their collar. This is a big challenge when we find pets with out-of-date details.
- If you know your animal is prone to extreme stress during this time, then see your veterinarian, before these events, for some medication. Never use human medication and discuss the use of natural remedies with your veterinarian.
- Make sure your yard is secure and safe as many pets who try to escape get stuck on palisades or hurt on other fencing.
- Decensitizing your pet for these sound at their pace can be achieved, but it has to happen weeks or months before such an event as it takes time. Here is a post by Bark Vader Dog School.
Watch this video for more details. Images below by The Animal Welfare Society of SA.
WHAT TO DO DURING FIREWORKS
- On the day of the expected fireworks, look for your animals, especially cats, before the fireworks start.
- Close windows and curtains so your pet is not startled by sudden flashes.
- Keep your pets indoors with windows, doors, and pet doors shut and secured so they can’t escape when spooked.
- If your cat is not used to being indoors, provide extra litter boxes inside.
- Provide your pet with food before the fireworks as it can help calm them or they might be too stressed to eat later.
- Give your pet a safe place to hide with blankets and bedding to mask the sounds. Cats also feel secure and love boxes.
- Put the TV or music on to mute the firework bangs.
- Specific music can hellp them relax: https://caninelullabies.com/ or https://rescueanimalmp3.org/
- If your pet is hiding, don’t try to lure them out. This can make them more anxious and stressed.
- Distract your pet with treats or play time if they are pacing or displaying nervous behaviour.
- Stay home with your pets in these frightening times as you would with frightened children. You also need to stay calm as they can feel your anxiety.
Also read about general training tips Part one & Part two.
In conclusion, the use of fireworks, while a spectacular tradition for human celebrations, is a selfish act that takes a heavy toll on our animal companions. The distress, anxiety, and fear experienced by pets and wildlife during firework displays is a matter of great concern. As responsible and compassionate individuals, we need to reconsider the necessity of these dazzling but potentially harmful displays.
By choosing alternative ways to celebrate special occasions and holidays that do not involve fireworks, we can protect the well-being of our four-legged friends, as well as the environment. This decision not only demonstrates our commitment to the welfare of animals but also promotes a more harmonious coexistence with the creatures we share our planet with. Ultimately, it’s a small sacrifice for the sake of the happiness, comfort, and safety of our beloved animal companions, and it reflects our dedication to creating a more compassionate and empathetic society.
This year volunteer at your local shelters when fireworks are being set off by these selfish humans so you can help comfort the animals. Help us educate others by sharing this information and reporting any unlawful selling or use of fireworks. Don’t support any firework displays!
If you find a lost dog or pet, please take them to the SPCA or local shelter! Next week we will look at tips when your pets are home alone.
WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!
