The RSPCA is urging those holding fireworks displays to consider animals over the next few days – as one of the first victims of the fireworks season is revealed.
New stats have shown almost two-thirds (63%) of animal owners surveyed reported that their pet appeared distressed during firework season.
One victim of the bonfire season already this year is beloved family pet Domino.
The RSPCA launched an investigation after her owners found her remains in their garden on the morning of October 25. It is believed she was killed by a firework after parts of her body were found scattered across the garden in Moorhouse Road, Harrow.
Sadly, her fur had been singed and was burned, part of her left hand side was missing including the ribs and her head was also missing.
Items which looked like firework plastic shrapnel pellets were also found all over the garden – along with a firework rocket. A firework stick and some firework pellets were also later found in a neighbour’s garden.
The family, who do not wish to be named, have been left shocked and devastated by the cruelty towards their beloved pet who they described as sweet, loving and skittish – as well as extremely beautiful and a much-loved family pet.
Her owner said that on Monday night, at around 10.30pm, she and a neighbour recall hearing the sound of a firework and something similar to a scream.
RSPCA inspector Simon Hoggett is investigating this incident and said: “I am shocked and appalled by what has happened to poor Domino and my heart goes out to her poor owner and family.
“If anyone does have any information about this we would urge them to contact us on 0300 1234 999.”
Last year the RSPCA started its first online reporting form for members of the public about the impact of fireworks on their animals – receiving 11,785 responses showing this is a real problem for animals across the country.
Carrie Stones, RSPCA campaigns manager, said: “We fear due to larger displays being cancelled that there will now be lots of little, DIY displays taking place, spreading out fireworks noise and causing prolonged distress for animals across a larger area.
“We’d urge people to be considerate and keep neighbours with animals, including those with nearby horses and other livestock, informed of plans well in advance so they can make preparations to reduce the stress to their animals.
“Equally lower-noise fireworks can make such a difference to make displays safer for everybody. Put simply please keep animals in mind if you are planning your own display and check out our advice on our website.”
The RSPCA is calling for the UK Government to introduce tighter controls and regulations around the sale and use of fireworks in a bid to help both animals and people who suffer with fireworks phobias and noise aversion; while urging local authorities to introduce localised restrictions too.
