Warning to pet owners as more fireworks are due this weekend and we want your comments

Submitted by GSPCA on 10:59, 9th Nov, 2012 | 0

The GSPCA wanted to remind all pet owners that there is going to be a firework display at the St Martin's Football Club tomorrow evening on the 10th November 2012 and they are planned to start from 6.30pm.

The GSPCA is appealing for feedback on comments regarding how you felt this years firework displays and controls have been. Lorna Prince GSPCA Welfare Manager is on the working party that looks at how fireworks are controlled in Guernsey and she would like your input. Please email comments to [email protected]

Below is advice for pet owners.

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.

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.

If you require further advice please contact the GSPCA on 257261

Please support our Tuesday Coffee and Bric-a-brac mornings at the GSPCA Animal Shelter between 10.30am and 12pm

Soup Kitchen Tuesday 4th December 2012 at the Town Church in St Peter Port, Guernsey with the GSPCA and Bridge2Sri Lanka. To download a poster please click here.