Sunny South Africa experiences a good few thunderstorms every year. While those are great, we also experience loud bangs in another form: fireworks. These can be extremely traumatic for our dogs, with thousands of dogs getting lost, injured or even killed every year in their attempt to escape from the noise.
Fright night
You are having a peaceful evening at home – and all of a sudden it sounds like a war has broken out. People are shooting off fireworks, and your dog doesn’t like this at all. Now what? If your dog hears the noise for the first time and gets a fright, it is quite normal. If he continues acting normally after that, he should be okay. However, signs that your dog is seriously anxious include the following:
- Hiding
- Panting
- Trying to escape
- Trembling
- Seeking out his owner
- Pacing
- Incontinence
- Dilated pupils
How can you help?
Yes, we tend to get angry at those who are unknowingly traumatising our dogs. But keep your anger for later, because now is the time to help your dog. Try not to act in a different manner that will further alarm him. Here are some tips:
- Keep your dog inside the house and supervise his behaviour. Many dogs seriously injure themselves in their attempts to escape from the scary noises.
- Make sure your dog has a safe space where he can hide away if he wants to.
- Feed your dog a hearty, nutritious meal before the fireworks start. This can help him to become nice and sleepy!
- Prevention is better than cure! Make sure your dog is microchipped and wearing his name tag in case he does get out.
- Wearing a ThunderShirt can help your dog to feel more secure. Discuss this with your vet.
- Some dogs will relax if you play their favourite game with them. You can also try putting on some soothing music, or the television.
- Speak to your vet about medications that can help your dog. Never give your dog any medication without confirming with your veterinarian that it’s safe for the dog.
- Many pet owners opt to stay at home on nights when they anticipate fireworks, such as New Year’s Eve. If at all possible, this is a great idea.
Know the law
The Explosives Act No 26 of 1956 applies nationwide, with no exceptions. It states that: “It is unlawful to discharge any firework in any building, on any public thoroughfare or in any public place or resort without prior written permission of the local authority.” When it comes to private properties, whether or not it’s legal to set off fireworks is governed by the local by-laws. In some areas, no fireworks may be set off at any time without written permission from the local authority. In other areas, it is permitted to set off fireworks on specific dates and times. Make sure you know the by-laws in your area, and do not hesitate to submit complaints to your closest SAPS.
