The Tribune

By RICARDO WELLS

BAHAMAS Humane Society officials are reminding the public to keep their pets safe and secure during Halloween, explaining that during this time of year most animals are “frightened by fireworks”.

Fireworks are prevalent in late October and early November due to Halloween and Guy Fawkes festivities.

The loud pops and bright lights can startle pets into a panic and animals being restrained or tied down can injure themselves in their attempts to escape to shelter or protection.

BHS shelter manager Percy Grant told The Tribune yesterday that during this period most animals become alarmed by fireworks and he warned pet owners to “understand” their animals.

“If your pets get easily frightened then you would need to keep an eye on them,” Mr Grant said.

“At BHS we have sedatives that we prescribe in these instances to keep pets calm and relaxed.”

Pet enthusiast Amanda Lightbourn says that she will go the extra mile this year to protect the nine pets that will be in her care over the weekend.

“I have five dogs and two cats of my own and in addition to them I will also be sitting two other dogs,” she said.

“The key is to know what to expect from Halloween night and Guy Fawkes night. It gets loud and that can become scary for animals.

“After almost every Halloween and New Year’s I find animals that have been spooked and lost and find it so sad that they are under such stress from the fireworks.”

She suggested that tying down or restraining pets at these times might not be the best solution, adding that it can be more dangerous than helpful. Ms Lightbourn offered the idea of finding a spot for the animals inside the family’s home.

“Placing them in a bathroom or

laundry room for the night will get the job done,” she said.

The BHS also reminded the public that it is continuing to offer its free canine distemper vaccine in the wake of the “serious outbreak of canine distemper virus” in New Providence.