We are fast approaching the firework season where the GSPCA helps more animals scared and injured by bonfires and loud noises than any other time of year.
Every year we hear of firework related incidents involving animals and children. While fireworks may be exciting and pretty to look at and its fun to celebrate many celebrations with a bang, we must put our safety, the safety of our pets and the local wildlife first
Steve Byrne GSPCA Manager “Every year we are called out and help stray dogs to hedgehogs caught in bonfires over the firework period.”
“Although thankfully the numbers are low even one caused harm, is one too many and the GSPCA is urging all islanders to ensure their animals are safe and every precaution is taken to help wildlife.”
“This year the sale of fireworks to the public in Guernsey will commence on Friday 26th October and will be allowed until close of business on Monday 5th November and the sale of fireworks to persons under 20 years of age is prohibited.”
“The GSPCA would encourage all to attend organised events where possible, but if you are to run a private event for friends, family or work to please, please let the GSPCA and States know so we can add them to our online calendar and islanders can be informed.”
"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 firework calendar helps 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."
"We are about to be very busy in schools around Guernsey talking to the children about safety for both themselves and their animals and not forgetting the wildlife."
“If your school or group would like a talk or visit to the GSPCA please do call us on 01481 257261 or email [email protected] .”
Steve continued "It is important that all pet and animal owners ensure their pets this October and November are safe and we have some great advice on our website or call the Shelter on 257261."
"At the GSPCA we will be looking to do what we can to help the 500 animals in our care by leaving the radios on to using adaptil and feliway products."
Here is some firework advice from the GSPCA -
The Firework Code
Keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin
Use them one at a time, replacing the lid immediately
NEVER put fireworks in your pocket
Read the instructions carefully, using a torch or hand lamp NEVER use a naked flame
Light fireworks at arms length using a taper or a firework lighter
Stand well back and NEVER return to a firework after it has been lit, it could explode in your face
Ensure that all children with fireworks are well supervised
NEVER throw fireworks
Keep all pets and animals indoors
Take care of sparklers, wear gloves to hold them and dispose of sparklers in a bucket of water as soon as they are finished
The Animal Firework Code - The GSPCA would like to urge every one to 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 indentity 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 and 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, however don’t take your dog. If you are going out then draw your cutrains, put the television or radio on and provide you pet with a safe hiding place so they feel secure.
If you are having a private firework display then build your 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. Do not light fires or set off fireworks near trees where birds are likely to be roosting.
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.
If you know that you pet is frightened by loud noises such as fireworks or has an existing heart condition please contact your vet for advice.
Please clean up after firework parties. Litter is hazardous to domestic and wild animals.
Remember NEVER let fireworks off near animals.
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.
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.
If you require further advice please contact the GSPCA on 257261
To find out more on trips, talks and our education work please email [email protected] or call 01481 257261
If you would like to help at one of our upcoming events please give Michelle a call on 257261 or email [email protected]
If you would like to find out more on how you can support the shelter and the animals in our care then please visit our fundraising page www.gspca.org.gg/fundraising
On Monday 5th November we have a volunteer induction evening and for more information and additional induction dates please visit http://gspca.org.gg/about/volunteers or call 257261
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