Animal charity fireworks plea

Think about animals on Bonfire Night.

That’s the message this week from Scottish SPCA Lanarkshire who have urged folk to consider the impact of fireworks on their welfare.

The charity is reminding revellers that fireworks season can be a stressful time of year for both animals and pet owners who are trying to protect their furry friends from the fear and distress they can cause.

Peter Fleming, manager of the rescue and rehoming centre, said:“Animals have heighted senses and their hearing is much stronger than ours.

“A dog’s hearing is twice as sensitive as a human’s; and a cat’s three times.

“We’ve been made aware of numerous incidents over the years where animals have come to serious harm and even death as a result of fireworks being set off near them.

“Animals will panic and flee at the sound of the bang and this can result in injury to the animals and even road traffic accidents.

“We’ve received reports of cats and dogs escaping as they look for a safe place to hide and sheep getting stuck in fences as they flee displays set off near their field.

“We’re also aware of incidents where farm animals have aborted their young soon after nearby fireworks displays.

“We’re encouraging the public to attend organised displays rather than set off their own fireworks.”

Information on the dangers of fireworks and advice can be found on the SSPCA online newsroom.