Remember, remember....safety advice for animal owners ahead of a busy bonfire weekend

Saturday 03 November 2018

With a number of public and private bonfire parties and firework displays planned for this weekend, the GSPCA is once again urging everyone to consider local wildlife and pets while enjoying the fun side of Guy Fawkes and Budloe night.

The States website lists a number of events taking place today, tomorrow and on Monday 5 November itself, with one also listed for Tuesday 6.

The list on gov.gg is updated by members of the public and alerts are sent out to people who sign up for them warning of forthcoming firework displays so that animal owners and others can be prepared in advance.

Pictured: Some pets and wildlife don't like fireworks, but owners can be warned via the gov.gg website. 

The GSPCA said despite the States warning system being in place and well documented guidance for pet and livestock owners, it helps more animals scared and injured by bonfires and loud noises than during any other time of the year.

The charity's manager said every year staff hear of firework related incidents involving animals and children, and that while fireworks may be "exciting and pretty to look at and it's 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 said they get themselves prepared to be busy every November.

“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.”

Pictured: The GSPCSA wants everyone to check for hedgehogs before lighting bonfires. 

This year the sale of fireworks to the public in Guernsey was legally allowed between Friday 26 October and Monday 5 November, and only to people over 20.

Although private displays are allowed, the GSPCA said it would encourage everyone to instead attend organised events where possible, but Mr Byrne said, "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.”

The GSPCA also repeated advice through the Firework Code and Animal Firework Code too: 

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 

• 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.

The GSPCA sells items designed to help keep animals calm during firework displays, with information on its website. 

Pictured: Pet and animal owners are urged to prepare ahead of this weekend's firework displays.