SPCA calls for a quiet Guy Fawkes night

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA is calling for a quiet Guy Fawkes night tonight, Tuesday November 5, to help protect pets and wildlife.

In a statement, it said that animals can hear a broader range of sounds than humans, making fireworks at least seven times louder for them.

For animals, this sudden noise can be as shocking and distressing as a sonic boom or explosion would be for a human. Animals typically respond by fleeing from the noise, which can sometimes lead to tragic outcomes.

Wild birds and other animals will flee, become disorientated, run onto highways, fly into buildings, or hide in objects such as pipes or drains and even abandon their nests, leaving offspring to suffer.

Pets will run in blind panic through glass door panes and even into oncoming traffic and those that find a hiding place will likely not find their way back home again.

The effects of the noise on animals can be long-lasting, sometimes resulting in nervous, and aggressive behaviour.

The absolute terror animals experience from loud bangs is a very real threat to them, it is extremely cruel and incredibly selfish, said Cape of Good Hope SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abraham.

She urged the public not to support the illegal use of fireworks and to report fireworks being set off in your area to The City of Cape Town’s Law Enforcement on 021 480 7700.

How can you help your pets?

• Make sure your pets are safe and that they have up-to-date identification on them such as a collar with a tag and a registered microchip with up-to-date information.

• Create a safe, secure place for them inside your home that is away from windows or doors.

• Close curtains or blinds and put the TV or radio on to mask the sounds outside.

• Feed them earlier and keep them inside.

• Walk dogs in the day and not in the evening when fireworks could be set off.

• Vet shops stock a range of calming tablets, sprays, or products that can be sprinkled on food or bedding. Speak to a professional about the best options for your pet.

• Make sure you are there to comfort your pets should they feel distressed, and keep in mind that older pets may develop fears of sounds that previously didn’t bother them.