RSPCA calls for strict firework regulations to protect pets in Lincolnshire
Concerns over unpredictable firework displays affecting animals
The RSPCA Lincolnshire branch is advocating for stricter regulations on firework usage to shield pets and wildlife from distress during the firework season.
Whitney Ball, Animal Welfare Officer at RSPCA Lincoln, emphasised the significant impact of fireworks on pets at home and wildlife, noting, “It's quite a significant impact, unfortunately, and generally not a very positive one.”
Whitney highlighted that fireworks now tend to be a prolonged event rather than confined to a single evening. She said this makes it challenging for owners to calm their pets.
Whitney said: "It's tricky because it's now a week or two week long thing so it makes it very difficult to judge. Some cats and dogs within the home are okay but a significant number of them really do struggle".
Whitney, along with many other dog owners, has adjusted her schedule to support her own pet, explaining, “I know the date, I know the time, so I can put things in place to support my little dog that struggles with it.”
To combat the rising number of firework displays, many people are campaigning for restrictions on who can use fireworks and when. Whitney said: "There needs to be a lot more structure around who can do it and there needs to be a limit on how much sound fireworks can produce.
"There needs to be a restriction on time frame as well just to be able to support pet owners who are dealing with pets that are struggling".
To calm her dog down, Whitney gives her 7 year old dog anti anxiety medication ahead of bonfire night. Whitney added: "She just gets so stressed out and it's really distressing as owners to see your pets like that".
RSPCA animal welfare officer Whitney says off recommends pet owners take measures such as using pheromone plugins and adapting their routines to keep pets calm and safe.
Ultimately, Whitney as a pet owner and animal welfare officer says “There needs to be a bigger change really to really help because there's only so much owners can do".