Carrie Mudge at Pearcedale Animal Aid with one of the fireworks victims.
By Amy Taylor
MORE than 21 dogs went missing on New Year’s Eve, due to a condition called ‘fireworks phobia.’
The Peninsula Animal Aid (PAA) in Pearcedale rescued more than 40 stray dogs over the New Year period while firework displays were in progress and were trying to help owners minimise the problem.
Carrie Mudge from PAA said that a lot of dogs ran for days and every stray for the next week could be due to fireworks.
She said dogs feared for their lives while fireworks were being let off, taking to the streets and breaking through glass windows in the home in an attempt to escape the unfamiliar sights and sounds.
Ms Mudge said the most effective way for owners to ensure the safe return of their loved ones were micro-chipping, that was regularly updated to ensure the current details were provided and using clear identification on their collars.
“Owners should be there with their animals on New Years Eve, but for dogs that are home alone and distressed by fireworks, there is a behavioural drug and training available through veterinary clinics,” she said.
