Protect Pets, People, Environment From Firecrackers

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As 2024 draws to a close, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and EcoWaste Coalition are urging Filipinos to ditch firecrackers and fireworks in favor of a safer and more compassionate New Year celebration.

In an event featuring furry friends, the groups highlighted the harmful effects of firecrackers on animals, people, and the environment.

“The deafening explosions during New Year’s Eve can terrify companion animals, especially those outdoors,” said Atty. Anna Cabrera, executive director of PAWS. “Dogs and cats hear better than humans, and the sound of firecrackers causes them severe stress. Some dogs tremble for hours after being exposed.”

Cabrera appealed to pet owners to bring dogs inside, especially on New Year’s Eve, noting that caged or chained animals are in the worst situation. “Have mercy on your pets. Keep them inside,” she pleaded.

Firecracker smoke and fumes can also harm pets, causing eye and lung irritation, appetite loss, or digestive issues. Pets may even ingest pyrotechnic debris, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.

“The harm caused by firecrackers and fireworks to defenseless animals should be enough to discourage their use,” said Aileen Lucero, national coordinator of EcoWaste Coalition. “We urge the public to use alternative noisemakers that won’t harm our furry friends or the environment.”

Environmental health expert Dr. Geminn Louis Apostol of Ateneo de Manila University explained that firecrackers release hazardous pollutants, worsening air quality and causing respiratory problems, particularly for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with preexisting health conditions.

Dangerous chemicals like aluminum, barium, copper, lead, potassium, and strontium are released into the air after firecracker use. Exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5), for instance, can lead to asthma, bronchitis, or even heart problems.

To ensure a safe New Year’s Eve for pets, PAWS and EcoWaste Coalition offered these tips:

1. Walk or take your pets for a run or physical activity before it gets dark so they will be tired by night time and would be soundly sleeping by the time the revelry begins.

2. Keep pets inside to avoid them becoming stressed or exposed to loud explosions and toxic fumes. Never chain or tie them outside your home – not only during New Year’s Eve; chaining or tethering should never go beyond an hour – as companion animals are meant to share family activities with us inside our home.
3. Escape-proof your home to prevent pets from going out during the revelry. Make sure they have a collar with a tag indicating the pet owner’s details.
4. Make pets pee or poo before the revelry starts, and give them ready access to water.
5. Provide a quiet and safe spot where pets can stay during the revelry; shut the windows, pull the curtains down and play soft music inside your home.
6. Turn on the television if this will help mask the noise of the firecrackers outside and if you think your pet prefers the sound of the TV over other loud noises.
7. Act as normal and as calm as possible even while the explosions are at their worst so that your pets will take a cue from your behavior – that there is nothing to be alarmed about. Fussing over your pet may have the effect of increasing their tendency to panic.
8. Talk to your veterinarian about giving your pet drops of “Rescue Remedy” or calming edible drops on their favorite treat (available in organic pet supply stores) ahead of time.  Buy or make an anxiety vest for dogs that have an extreme fear or trauma response to firecrackers.
9. Keep alcoholic drinks, chocolate, fruit cake, nuts, shopping bags, tobacco products, and cleaning agents out of pet’s reach to prevent choking and poisoning incidents.
10. Give stray animals a safe haven in your garage if you have the space – provide temporary shelter, food and water, especially during the revelry.