The Cape of Good Hope SPCA is urging Capetonians to observe the City of Cape Town By-law – which prohibits the discharging of fireworks in residential areas and could attract a fine – or criminal charges in the case of animal abuse.
Fireworks are weapons of terror for animals. Using them to frighten animals is cruel and illegal.
It is not only domestic pets who are adversely affected by fireworks – they also affect birds and wildlife – as well as pollute the environment.
As part of its educational outreach campaign about the dangers of fireworks, the SPCA has visited several schools in the run-up to Guy Fawkes.
It is disturbing how many children said they were going to set off crackers over the weekend – they had no idea that it is dangerous, illegal and inflicts harm on animals. But thankfully, by the time our education team left, their excitement about fireworks had turned to concern for their pets.
Helpful Tips For Pet Owners:
• Keep all pets indoors if fireworks are being set off in your community. Report the use of fireworks to the City’s Emergency Control Centre on 021 480 7700.
• Stay home with your pets. Close the curtains, ensure they can access a quiet space like a room to hide or help them feel secure.
- • Offer distractions like toys or treats, put the TV on or play soothing music.
- • Have pets microchipped at the vet or SPCA as a sensible precaution against them straying.
- • Consider natural calming remedies, which are available from the SPCA Vet Shops in Plumstead and Grassy Park.
Helplines
The SPCA urges members of the public to report any cruelty to animals or emergencies by calling 021 700 4158/9 or 083 326 1604 after hours.
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s Inspectorate and Wildlife teams will be on standby to attend to any animal emergencies.
