As Bonfire Night nears, animal welfare groups are gearing up for what is traditionally one of their busiest nights of the year.
In previous years, many animals have been subjected to cruelty and abuse over Bonfire Night. Last year, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), the UK’s leading animal welfare charity, received 436 calls relating to fireworks during October and November – more than ever before.
As fireworks can reach peak speeds of 150mph, the same speed as some planes, and with their sounds reaching the same level of decibels as a jet aircraft taking off, many animals find them scary. The RSPCA estimated that 45 per cent of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks.
With the UK’s pet population estimated at 8.5 million dogs and 7.4 million cats, and rising reports of negligent usage of fireworks and the lax monitoring of bonfires, the RSPCA have urged organisers to be vigilant.
Their advice is to ensure there is no wildlife around any events, check bonfires for small animals thoroughly before lighting them, and give plenty of notice to people in the area so they can be fully prepared.
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HeadlineRSPCA Advice on Keeping Pets Safe Ahead of Bonfire Night
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As Bonfire Night nears, animal welfare groups are gearing up for what is traditionally one of their busiest nights of the year.
In previous years, many animals have been subjected to cruelty and abuse over Bonfire Night. Last year, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), the UK’s leading animal welfare charity, received 436 calls relating to fireworks during October and November – more than ever before.
As fireworks can reach peak speeds of 150mph, the same speed as some planes, and with their sounds reaching the same level of decibels as a jet aircraft taking off, many animals find them scary. The RSPCA estimated that 45 per cent of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks.
With the UK’s pet population estimated at 8.5 million dogs and 7.4 million cats, and rising reports of negligent usage of fireworks and the lax monitoring of bonfires, the RSPCA have urged organisers to be vigilant.
Their advice is to ensure there is no wildlife around any events, check bonfires for small animals thoroughly before lighting them, and give plenty of notice to people in the area so they can be fully prepared.
