As of Monday, over half a million people had signed a petition to change the rules around fireworks ‘to protect animals’.
That same day, a dog owner revealed that a puppy called Molly died after suffering a heart attack when it was left terrified by fireworks.
We also learned that a dog called Suzy was left so stressed by fireworks that ‘her eyes popped’ and she went blind, and that a rabbit called Archie was frightened to death in the run-up to Bonfire Night.
With more displays due to happen for Bonfire Night this weekend, here’s why fireworks can stress animals out so much, and what you can do to help soothe your pets.
Why do fireworks affect animals?
Both domesticated and farm animals can be scared by fireworks, with the Blue Cross highlighting that animals have heightened hearing compared to humans and that the loud noises caused by fireworks can scare them or even cause them pain.
The RSPCA also points out that farm aminals are ‘easily frightened loud noises and sudden flashes of bright light, which can startle and cause them to injure themselves on fencing and farm equipment.’
According to the RSPCA, approximately 45% of dogs show signs of fear when they hear fireworks.
If you find your dog gets distressed with there are fireworks going off, you might want to try taking them for a walk before nightfall on the days when you think fireworks will likely go off.
This can help them feel drowsier and more relaxed when the fireworks start and can help ensure that you’ll be able to keep them inside during whatever display is going on nearby.
You should also close your windows, doors and even curtains to try and muffle the sound for your pet as the fireworks go off. You should also never take your pet to a fireworks display – keeping them inside when there are fireworks being set off nearby.
Pet owners should also ensure that their animals are microchipped, in case the fear causes them to bolt from the house.
If you have a larger animal such as a horse, you might consider informing your neighbours ahead of time so that they know not to set off any fireworks nearby.
You can also speak to your vet, or make arrangements for your animal to spend the night elsewhere.
MORE: Horse impaled itself on a fence after being ‘spooked by fireworks’
source https://metro.co.uk/2019/11/07/fireworks-scare-animals-11057340/
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