To help keep frightened pets to a minimum:
- If you are using fireworks at any kind of celebration, please use lower-noise fireworks, as they will reduce the likely stress caused to animals. You should make sure that pet and farm animal owners in the neighbourhood are aware of the date and time of the event
- Firework debris and litter can harm animals, so pick it all up after it has cooled down and dispose of it safely
- Keep cats and dogs indoors while any bonfire is alight. Ensure that any bonfire is a safe distance from aviaries or rabbit / guinea pig accommodation
- Bonfires can be fatal for wild animals such as hedgehogs, which often crawl into them to sleep. Build bonfires as late as possible to reduce this risk and make sure you disturb the bonfire’s foundations to give any wildlife a chance to escape before it is lit.
Information supplied by the RSPCA
Missing Pets
If your pet goes missing, search your local area as he may be hiding nearby.
If you can’t find him, phone your nearest police station and if it is a dog that has gone missing the dog warden at your local council. It is also advisable to call any veterinary practices or rescue centres in the area to see whether he has been handed in.
Pet Injuries
If your pet is injured, seek veterinary assistance. If it is ‘out of hours’ your veterinary practice will have an answer phone message giving a telephone number that you can call for advice.
Cuts and grazes
Cuts and grazes can be treated with mildly salty water. Try and stop your pet from licking the wound by covering it up with a bandage. Deeper wounds should be treated by a veterinary surgeon.
Burns
Run cold water over burns for several minutes and contact your veterinary practice for advice. Don’t apply any creams as they may cause more harm than good.
If in doubt, please call your local veterinary practice.
