Local MSP Rhoda Grant, Labour, is issuing her annual appeal for the public to be mindful that the fireworks season can be a very stressful time of year for pet owners who are trying to protect their animals from the fear and distress fireworks can cause.
Rhoda Grant said:
“Of course I don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun at this time of year, but I really think parents and the public in general, should consider attending an organised bonfire or fireworks event within their community, rather than letting fireworks off in public areas”
“All I want to do is remind folk that loud bangs not only scare the elderly, housebound and frail, but absolutely terrify animals, be they domestic pets or wild animals and cause all sorts of injuries and can even cause death”.
“This year I have put together a leaflet which I am delighted has been fully supported by the Scottish SPCA and warns the public of the dangers posed to animals by the use of fireworks. The leaflet will be circulated on SSPCA media outlets, the local SSPCA Centre and other animal related businesses, organisations and public noticeboards across the region.
“Animals have heightened senses and their hearing is much stronger than ours. The bang from a firework is terrifying to an animal and some will panic and flee at the sound, which can even result in road traffic accidents.
“ All I want to do is just remind constituents that whilst fireworks are great fun to watch and listen to, there is also a down side and that is the fact that they also frighten the vulnerable in society and also our animals. My message is please stop, think and consider outcomes before letting off fireworks in public. If anyone is adversely affected by this issue then they should not hesitate to contact me.
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It’s also worth considering the fact, and it is a fact, that war veterans can be nervous of loud bangs, and bonfire night can be a hard time for them, too. Mike’s Dad has passed from this life now, but those very loud, explosive fireworks which are becoming more and more fashionable, made him jump. He was a man of courage, not just in his army career. He’d been through a lot, and didn’t deserve to have that carry on into civilian life.
Please, do, think about the animals, and the people too.
Organized, collective firework displays look more spectacular, and also can be more sociable.
They still can be frightening – but at least folk know where they are happening, and can take precautionary measures for themselves, and their animals.