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Don't have your pets go out with a bang

Wednesday 2 November 2011, 4:36PM

By New Zealand Veterinary Association

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Sad Pug
Sad Pug Credit: NZVA

The worst night of the year for many animals is fast approaching. And whether you love fireworks or hate them, it’s best to get prepared to ensure the safety of animals this Guy Fawkes.

“Fireworks night can be a real nightmare for animals. Not only are some people cruel to defenceless animals, but the noise of the fireworks can frighten even the most relaxed pets,” said Dr Pieter Verhoek, veterinarian and President of the Companion Animal Society branch of the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA).

He said “horses, and other livestock, can also get frightened by the sound and can injure themselves on fences trying to escape paddocks.

“We can’t prevent thunderstorms and other natural incidents that cause horses, and other animals, to take fright, but fireworks are something that we do have control over.”

He said “many veterinary clinics nationwide can recall stories regarding terrified, or injured, animals they’ve had to help, or treat, around Guy Fawkes time.

“I remember one incident where a veterinarian was called to euthanize a horse after it spent the night stuck in a wire fence - trying to escape the sound of fireworks coming from nearby houses.”

Dr Verhoek said “the horse had lost most of the skin from both its back legs and was bleeding from other wounds. It was in severe shock, unable to stand and had to be put down immediately.”

In addition, a past report to the NZVA showed that a dog, distressed by the noise of the fireworks, ran so far away that it wore out the pads on its feet.

Because of these reports, and the stress the noise of fireworks can cause animals, Dr Verhoek recommends keeping companion animals inside.

“Close your curtains so your pets can’t see the fireworks, and you may want to switch on the radio or television - a familiar sound - to distract pets from the fireworks’ noise.

“If your pet is hiding underneath a bed or other household object, don’t coax it out. It’s there because it feels safe,” Dr Verhoek said.

In addition, he said veterinarians can prescribe remedies to help overly sensitive pets.
“Ensure your pet is microchipped or has a collar with visible contact details in case it escapes.”

Finally, livestock owners should check paddock fences are secure as frightened horses and farm animals can injure themselves trying to escape

Dr Verhoek said “use the above recommendations to create an action plan and keep your animals safe this Guy Fawkes.”