Fireworks season is almost upon us, and the Cape of Good Hope SPCA is calling on Capetonians for a “firework free year”, following last year’s night of torture for too many animals across the Cape Metropole. Contrary to popular belief, the celebration of Guy Fawkes, albeit not a South African celebration at all, results in more than just one night of torment for animals – leading instead to weeks of suffering for many lost and injured animals.
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has witnessed over the past few years, that the effects of Guy Fawkes continue for weeks following the firework use, as many animals become so distressed at the level of noise, that they flee in panic in an attempt to reach a place of safety. These escape tactics can lead animals to scale high perimeter walls, get stuck in fences or storm-water drains, become victims of motor vehicle accidents, and end up wandering the streets for weeks, lost away from home – or if they’re lucky, end up at an animal shelter where organisations like the SPCA will try to reunite them with their families, often (sadly), to no avail.
The Animals Protection Act clearly states that “it is illegal for any person to terrify any animal” yet thousands of animals end up at the SPCA every year, lost and abandoned, disorientated and sometimes severely injured. The Firearms and Explosives Ordinance also makes it illegal for any child under the age of 16 to use or buy fireworks and it is illegal to use or sell fireworks without an official permit. Since 2019, the City of Cape Town has no longer provided designated sites for Guy Fawkes, Diwali or New Year’s Eve. In spite of this the illegal discharging of fireworks continues in residential homes and gardens.
Irresponsible and illegal use of fireworks, including ignoring restrictions set by the City’s By-laws, damage to property and abuse inflicted upon animals, must be reported immediately to the South African Police, whose ambit it is to enforce these laws.
How to protect your pet from fireworks
WE advise pet owners to adopt the following guidelines to help protect their pets:
- Ensure all animals have identification; preferably a micro-chip or at least with a dog tag because without identification, the task of reuniting lost pets with their owners will be that much more difficult;
- Please stay at home with your pets;
- Bring your pets inside and give them access to a room that is safe and secure – create a small den for them with blankets, pillows and a favourite toy;
- Try and mask any noise by drawing the curtains and playing calming music;
- Put familiar and comforting things around them;
- Give your pets a nutritious and balanced meal – this is likely to make them more sleepy;
- Give them something to chew on – a chewy bone or catnip toys for cats;
- If you suspect your pet will react badly to fireworks, please seek professional advice from your veterinarian who may prescribe a sedative to help them cope. There are also effective homeopathic remedies, such as PetCalm, available from the SPCA Vet Shops in Plumstead and Grassy Park that use natural ingredients to help keep your pet calm and relaxed.
Any instances of animal cruelty should be reported to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA Inspectorate immediately on 021 700 4158/59 or after hours and on weekends on 083 326 1604.
