Firework advice for your animals from the GSPCA

Submitted by Steve on 15:50, 4th Nov, 2014 | 0

Tomorrow many will mark the 5th November with firework parties.

The GSPCA have launched a calendar and ask those having public and private displays to let us know so we can have a central location for those around Guernsey know where and when these events take place. The calendar is linked to the GSPCA Twitter and Facebook pages so that reminders are sent out earlier in the day during these events.

Steve Byrne GSPCA Manager said "Every year during the periods of fireworks both pet animals and wildlife are put at risk."

"Last year at the GSPCA we saw from hedgehogs injured by bonfires to an increase in stray dogs which had either bolted from owners or escaped from gardens."

"There is still time to get your dog or cat microchipped at the Shelter for only £4.99 and we also have Adaptil and Feliway diffusers on sale at reception which can help."

"Please check out our information online or give us a call on 257261 for advice."

Lorna Prince Animal Welfare Manager said "At the GSPCA we are continually working to help animals in Guernsey and fireworks are a real concern and problem for many pet owners."

"The new calendar we have launched we really hope will help animal owners prepare and ensure their animals are safe during what can be a very stressful time."

"We continue to work with the Firework Committee in Guernsey to help advise on the problems many pet owners are faced with."

Sarah Creasey Animal Welfare and education Officer said "This year we are holding in Guernsey the first ever dog friendly Bonfire event which will be on Thursday 13th November at the KGV and tickets are on sale on our website."

"We have also launched a firework safety poster in schools and we are asking for all entries to be submitted by next Monday."

"We are currently very busy in schools around Guernsey talking to the children about safety for both themselves and their animals and not forgetting the wildlife."

"I have been taking Jeremy a very friendly bunny into the schools and he is one of many looking for a new home at the GSPCA."

Help us to continue to keep them safe!

Thankfully the incidents of animals being injured by fireworks & bonfires in Guernsey are few and far between; but we mustn’t get too complacent. Below are some basic guidelines that will enable you to help all of our furry and feathered friends to stay calm and safe on and around Bonfire night.

To notify us of your event please email the team at the GSPCA and we can add your firework display to our calendar. Please let us know the location, date and times it is planned for and also if it is public or a private event.

To let us know please call 01481 257261 or if you could email the following addresses one of the team will add it as soon as we can [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

To help please cut and paste the following and input the details -

Location of event:

Date of firework event:

Time planned to start:

Time planned to end:

Is the event public or private:

Any other helpful details:

Thank you for helping us help pet owners in Guernsey.

GSPCA Firework Advice

Fireworks are exciting and pretty to look at and it is fun to celebrate Guy Fawkes with a bang, but for our furry and feathered friends this time of year can be a nightmare. Many animals domestic and wild suffer needlessly every year.

The GSPCA would like to urge everyone follow our animal friendly firework code and protect your pets and the local wildlife.

Please make sure that your pets are wearing a collar with an identity tag in case they manage to escape from your home. We would also strongly advise that you have your pets microchipped as this enables us to reunite them with you much more easily should they run away. Please call the GSPCA for further details on having your animal microchipped.
Walk your dog during the day.
As soon as it gets dark keep your dog or cat inside. Ensure all of the windows and doors are locked including dog and cat flaps.
Go to an organised display if you can. If you are having a private firework display then build you bonfire as late as possible to reduce the likelihood of any wildlife taking up residence. Before lighting the fire check the area thoroughly for hedgehogs. We are always saddened by the number of hedgehogs we receive that have suffered severe burns.
Please notify your neighbours of your intentions. Especially the elderly and those who have pets.
When horses are startled they are likely to bolt and can suffer serious injuries. Ensure that all horses, ponies and donkeys are securely stabled with the doors closed.
Remember to bring guinea pigs and rabbits inside or place under cover in an out building.
Don’t take your dog to a firework display. If you are going out then draw your curtains, put the television or radio on and provide you pet with a safe hiding place so they feel secure.
If you know that your pet is frightened by loud noises such as fireworks or has an existing heart condition please contact your vet for advice. They may suggest you try an Appeasing Pheromone such as ADAPTIL or Feliway diffusers or may discuss the use of sedatives; depending on your pet’s needs.
Please clean up after firework parties. Litter is hazardous to domestic and wild animals.

Remember NEVER let fireworks off near animals.

Note: ADAPTIL and Feliway products are on sale at the Shelter and have proven to be very effective in calming anxious pets. You should purchase the product as soon as you can for maximum effectiveness on and around Fireworks night. The GSPCA is keen to help owners reduce their pet’s anxieties and now offers these products for almost 50% less than other outlets.

Here is some additional information and videos to help you through the next few weeks with your dog and cat:

GSPCA Adaptil Feliway fireword advice Guernsey

If you require further advice please contact the GSPCA on 257261

To see a list of the upcoming GSPCA events please click here.

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We have lots of animals in need of homes. Could you help us advertise them? To download a the posters please click here. or to share them on social media please click here.

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