TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID FIREWORKS DRAMAS

TERRITORIANS have been reminded to look after their pets on New Year’s Eve.

The Australian Veterinary Association has issued guidelines to keep dogs, cats and everything in between settled during the celebrations.

AVA spokesperson Dr David Neck said dogs and horses in particular were afraid of fireworks.

‘‘Dogs can try and run away and injure themselves in the process,’’ Dr Neck said.

‘‘ They can sometimes end up several kilometres from home.

‘‘In other cases dogs have been known to jump through plate-glass windows in fright or dig their way under fences that would normally contain them.

‘‘ Horses are particularly vulnerable to bolting when they hear fireworks.

‘‘Loud bangs can not only cause pain to their ears but can also make the bravest of pets, frightened.’’

Darwin dog owner Jay Lemmon, 25, said his dog Koda and his housemate’s hound George both barked and ran around the back yard when they heard fireworks.

‘‘Koda usually tries to jump the fence,’’ he said.

‘‘I put him inside to calm him down and make sure I lock the gate.’’

Pet owners can take the following simple steps to protect their pets: MOVE your dogs and cats inside. Close all windows and doors to stop them from escaping and keeping noise to a minimum. PREPARE a place where they can feel safe and comfortable like an interior room or under the bed. FOR horses, try and remain calm and positive as horses can sense unease in a person and this might make things worse.

Signs of noise phobia include hiding, urinating, chewing, panting, pacing, trying to escape, trembling and excessive barking in dogs.