The Scottish SPCA has urged the public to consider animals of all kinds ahead of Bonfire Night to prevent unnecessary suffering.
The loud noises from fireworks can have a devastating impact on pets, wildlife and farmed animals. They can cause the animal to feel stress, panic and can surmount to fleeing, self-injury and even fatalities.
A Firework Control Zone has been put in place around the Scottish SPCA Rescue and Rehoming Centre at Balerno, Edinburgh for the second year in a row in an attempt to make the space quieter and more peaceful for the animals in its care.
As animals have more acute hearing than humans, the loud and high-pitched noises made by fireworks can cause animals to suffer distress, fear or develop phobia responses.
Animals will panic and flee at the sound of the bang, and this can lead them towards danger such as being the cause of a road traffic accident.
Nicola Strachan, Head of Advocacy and Strategic Partnerships at the Scottish SPCA, said: “We always ask that the public enjoy fireworks responsibly and be mindful of the negative effect their use can have on both people and animals.
“Many pet owners and farmers experience first-hand the frightening effect fireworks have on their animals. It’s not just the noise, but the unpredictability – fireworks can go off at any time, leaving animals terrified and owners powerless to help.
“We are encouraging pet owners to keep their animals inside during Bonfire Night and to make sure they’re comfortable.
“We are also asking that people attend organised firework displays where possible.”
The charity has offered advice to the public and animal owners ahead of Bonfire Night:
- Attend an organised display where possible
- Follow the Fireworks Code
- Be considerate. Check your garden for any unsuspecting wildlife and clear away all debris caused by fireworks
- Create a safe space at home for your pet
- Walk your pet before 6pm (which is the time when legally people can set fireworks off)
- Bring all pets, including outdoor pets such as rabbits, indoors and ensure they are comfortable and warm
- Make sure doors, windows and cat-flaps are closed so your pet doesn’t get scared and run away
- Remain calm and don’t make a fuss (unless your pet seeks reassurance)
- Ensure your pet’s microchip details are up to date
- Put calming background noise on at reasonable volume (consider the Scottish SPCA’s Paws, Play, Relax album which is available to stream on Spotify and Apple Music)
- Consult a vet for advice ahead of Bonfire Night if you’re concerned about your animal
- If you see anyone using fireworks with the intent to cause harm, please report this to Police Scotland
- If you find an animal on its own that is clearly in distress and/or is injured, please contact the Scottish SPCA’s Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999
For more advice, please visit: Prepare your pet for Bonfire Night – Scottish SPCA
To report any act of cruelty, visit the Scottish SPCA website here.
