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27th October 2008

Fighting Like Cats & Dogs Put On Hold

Cat and dog owners aren’t known for seeing things eye to eye, but when it comes to the first week in November, past differences are being put aside. According to Petplan’s pet census, almost one in eight of all cat (79%) and dog (79%) owners think that all loud fireworks should be banned, and they are supported by the same number of vets (80%) who participated in the annual census.

Petplan Vet of the Year Brian Faulkner explains, “Injuries to pets due to fireworks are usually caused as a result of them fleeing in fear of the loud bangs and flashes. I once treated a Staffordshire Bull Terrier that bolted across a road when a firework exploded and was hit by a car. Luckily he survived the collision, although he did suffer a dislocated hip and a shattered leg.

It is not uncommon for cats to go missing at this time of year also as they try to get away from the noise.”

The impact of fireworks is so alarming for some pets, that in the survey almost half of the cat (45%) and dog (53%) owners who responded, supported by 44 per cent of vets, called for a total ban on fireworks.

Margaret Littlewood supports a total ban following the distressing experiences of her dog, Tramp, who became stuck behind the toilet when trying to hide from noisy fireworks. Margaret said: “Unfortunately, Tramp is no longer with us but I used to absolutely dread this time of year. One year there were a lot of fireworks nearby and in a panic, Tramp sought refuge behind the toilet. For a while I thought he might be stuck but when we eventually coaxed him out he was shaking horribly. To make matters worse, another firework went off and he ran and hid in my wardrobe – it was terribly upsetting.”

So what can you do to keep your pets safe this 5th November? Petplan have drawn up a list of five tips to keep your furry friends calm during all the commotion outside.

• Keep your pets inside – they will feel more secure and be less likely to run away.
• Act calm yourself – if you act as if it’s just a normal day then your pet will be calmer too.
• Ask neighbours if they are planning to release any fireworks, so that you can be prepared.
• Try not to leave your pets at home alone – this will only increase their anxiety.
• Make a den in a quiet place like under the stairs that they can retreat to if they feel scared.

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