Although these holidays might make winter more bearable, celebrating with fireworks in a way that harms an animal could leave you facing a hefty fine or even jail time.
Ahead of Guy Fawkes Night, on Friday, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has warned animal owners to prepare to comfort their pets and block out the noise.Possibly the best use of old jeans ever: a lap pillow.
But even those who are not pet owners should be careful as it is illegal to cause ‘unnecessary suffering to an animal’
Doing this falls under animal cruelty, according to the Animal Welfare Act of 2006, and allows courts to impose an unlimited fine and/or hand down a five-year jail sentence.You do not have to be the animal’s owner to cause it unnecessary suffering but you will only be found guilty if you ‘knew’ or ‘ought to have known’ your actions, or lack of, would cause an animal to suffer.
The legislation does not define what suffering is but the RSPCA has reported animals ‘trembling’ in fear and ‘shaking, panting and drooling’.Learn to read your dogs body language. Since no dog I know of is able to mosey up to the kitchen table, pour himself a cup of coffee, and confess to all of the things that annoy, frighten, and stress him out, I suggest that the next best thing is to learn to read your dog’s many signals and body language. This is how your dog will communicate with you.
Some owners say their dogs stay ‘nervous wrecks’ for days which they find ‘heartbreaking to see’.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) confirmed to Metro.co.uk that the misuse of fireworks is seen as causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.A spokesperson said: ‘Users of fireworks need to use them responsibly and be aware of animals close by, and those found guilty of causing animals unnecessary suffering can face up to five years’ imprisonment.’
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People who use fireworks illegally can be fined £90 or face six months in prison.
Many campaigners and pet owners argue the rules are not strict enough – as allowing people to use fireworks any day of the year makes it difficult for owners to plan when to take their pets away or make sure they are home to comfort them.
The RSPCA asks people who want to enjoy fireworks without harming animals to go to organised firework events, so there are less smaller displays around residential streets.
Telling pet owners about your firework plans in advance also helps as this gives them time to plan how and when to comfort their animals.
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Of course, using low-noise fireworks can also help reduce the number of animals who get spooked.
The RSPCA said: ‘In the last five years, we’ve received 1,621 calls about fireworks and their effects on animals.
‘We see heartbreaking videos and images of animals struggling to cope during fireworks and the stress it causes them.
‘There is information on the RSPCA website on how to prepare your pets in advance such as bringing pets inside and providing extra bedding to make a safe haven.
‘We would also advise you to consult your vet if you feel your pet is particularly anxious.’
The routine of caring for a pet can bring structure and purpose to daily life. Maybe you don’t always want to get out of bed, but your pet wants you to. Isn’t that a good thing?
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