PDSA issues warning ahead of New Year’s fireworks
Rosie broke her left femur while panicked about fireworks.
The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) has warned pet owners to be prepared ahead of New Year’s Eve, which many people will mark by setting off fireworks.
The warning follows this year’s PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report, which found that 41 per cent of dogs and 30 per cent of cats were afraid of fireworks. It also found 82 per cent of pet owners agreeing fireworks should only be allowed at certain times, with 71 per cent calling for a compulsory reduction in firework noise.
PDSA says it sees an average of 1,400 pets due to firework related issues, including injuries and phobias.
One such case occurred on 31 December 2021, when Joanne Edney’s dog Rosie was seriously injured when frightened by nearby fireworks.
Ms Edney had taken action ahead of the expected fireworks, securing her house and closing all her curtains. Rosie appeared to be as happy and relaxed as possible.
However, at approximately 1pm that night, Rosie became alarmed by fireworks nearby. In her panic, she ran down the stairs, missed some steps, and fell to the bottom.
Ms Edney immediately knew that Rosie was injured by the way she was holding her back leg up. Rosie was rushed to a PDSA Pet Hospital, where the team prescribed her pain relief and took X-rays.
The X-rays revealed a broken left femur, which would require complex surgery to repair. After surgery, she would also need strict rest and pain relief to support the healing process.
PDSA’s intervention meant that Rosie soon recovered from her injuries.
Gemma Renwick, a PDSA veterinary nurse, said: “Ideally, it is best to prepare your pet several months in advance by gradually exposing them to fireworks noises, so lessening the impact firework season has.
“However, if you haven’t had the chance this year, there are still lots of things pet owners can do in the short term to make fireworks a less frightening experience. Simple, and easy steps, from creating a den to introducing soothing sounds, can go a long way to making this firework season a more pleasant one all round.”
PDSA recommends that dogs and cats are brought inside early in the evening and that the house is checked and secured before any fireworks go off. This includes locking dog and cat flaps, as well as doors and windows.
The guide suggests that pet owners create a cosy space for pets, filled with blankets and their favourite toys. Pet owners could also play relaxing sounds and use a pheromone plug-in to keep pets calm. Providing reassurance as needed is also recommended.
During this firework night, pet owners should take note of what works so they can be best prepared for the next firework season.
PDSA’s Firework Guide can be accessed here.
Fireworks image © Shutterstock
Image of Rosie © PDSA
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
