How to keep your pets safe this silly season
Published on 22 December 2022
The experts at Shoalhaven Animal Shelter have shared their top tips on how to keep your pets safe during the festive season.
Tis the season to be jolly but not so much for many of our four-legged friends who get stressed-out by loud noises.
With an increasing number of noisy parties, fireworks and summer storms, pets can become stressed, anxious and can act out threatening their safety and that of others in the community.
While private fireworks or pyrotechnic displays require approvals from SafeWork NSW, during holiday and festive seasons it’s not uncommon for people to acquire and set off unauthorised fireworks outside of displays that are formalised. Not only does this create environmental issues, but it could also impact on your pets, as they are more sensitive to noise. Authorised fireworks events can be found using SafeWork NSW fireworks display search.
Jodie Parnell from the Shoalhaven Animal Shelter said dogs and cats in particular are more sensitive to noise and need to be kept safe and secure during fireworks season and when storms are forecast.
“Pets have a flight or fight response to loud noises, and some will look to escape from what they see as a threat. With a little planning, we can ensure they are kept safe, calm and free from harm,” said Ms Parnell.
Shoalhaven Animal Shelter’s top tips for keeping your pets safe:
- Create a safe haven for your pet: Set up a quiet space away from windows so your pets can’t see or hear fireworks and storms or try playing white noise or classical music. If your dog is outside, make sure there’s no escape route – fences need to be high, gates locked and no opportunity for digging their way out.
- Microchip check: Make sure your pets are always wearing their collar and ID tag with up-to-date contact information and check your microchip details are up to date.
- Boarding kennels: If you’re planning on being away, get a pet sitter or book a boarding kennel. Pets love company and being alone can make them bored and anxious.
Following these top tips will help reduce the number of animals that are picked up by Council Rangers and brought to the Shelter.
For everything you need to know about responsible pet ownership in the Shoalhaven, visit Council’s website at shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au/pets-animals