Fireworks and firecrackers, in addition to representing a risk of loss of limbs and amputations, burns, eye damage and deafness, among other consequences for humans, are true torture for animals.
For this reason, the National Zoonoses Control Program and National Anti-Rabies Center (CAN) urges to become aware and, if possible, put aside these artifacts that represent a risk to people and bad times for animals.
Pets suffer at the end of the year parties, due to the exaggerated use of fireworks, especially bombs that cause noise. Among the affectations that these produce, mainly, are those related to their hearing, as well as fear, stress and others.
During the Christmas and New Year celebrations, pets become nervous and fearful, looking for places to hide or shelter from the annoying noises caused by certain fireworks.
This is because, with the sound of the bombs, the pets enter a state of total excitement in which they do not control their impulses, so many escape and flee the house. Once they are out of familiar territory, they lose their sense of direction and are often unable to return home.
How to alleviate the situation?
In the case of dogs, before the hustle and bustle of the holidays, you could take your pet for a walk on a leash so that he relieves himself, runs and remains calmer.
Later, they can be located in a airy, well-ventilated room with their bed, blanket, toys, water, and food, if possible where the noise of the bombs cannot be directly heard. Before these bursts start, you can close windows, blinds and doors, to reduce the noise as much as possible.
The use of cotton as earplugs for animals it is a valid option to protect them from the noise of firecrackers, but without forgetting to remove them, since if they are forgotten they can cause serious infections.
Bombs tend to make the animal nervous and even aggressive, so it is not recommended to break into the room where it is isolated.
Also, it is suggested, if possible, do not sedate the animaleven more so if he is already very adult, and under no circumstances without a prescription from a veterinarian.
Food and transportation of pets on holidays
Try to maintain your pet’s usual diet, with small treats of meat suitable for them. Take special care with sweets and chocolates, these foods can cause serious damage. They can also end up stuffed and with a stomach ache, even reaching barf.
If you have to move to another part of the country, in the case of cats and due to their personality, the ideal is to leave them at home in the care of a responsible person. As for the dogs, it is recommended to move them with appropriate systems, such as bibs (not collars) and in carriers according to their weight and height.
