BC SPCA said Halloween fireworks can be traumatizing for dogs and cats.

Image Credit: SUBMITTED/BC SPCA

While Halloween night is meant to be scary, the Halloween fireworks can be the most frightening thing of all for dogs and cats.

The BC SPCA is asking pet owners to keep that in mind tonight, Oct. 31.

“I don’t think people realize the trauma surrounding fireworks for animals,” Aleigh Ateyo said in a BC SPCA media release. “On nights when there are fireworks, the call load is always worse. The animals are frantic and once an animal is frightened and running, they are almost impossible to catch.”

Ateyo said many people will bring their dogs out for walks only to have them bolt at the sounds of exploding fireworks. Other times, animals will break through fences or windows after being spooked by fireworks.

Studies have shown that fireworks can have an impact on wild animals whether it’s birds flying into buildings or windows, or animals running into streets this all happens because they get scared out of their dens and roosting sites at the sounds of the fireworks, the SPCA said.

The same happens with domesticated pets: there is a high risk they will get spooked by the noise of the fireworks and try to run away. For this reason, there are three things the BC SPCA recommends doing to keep Halloween safe and fun for all.

“Ensure your pet has at least two forms of identification in case they go missing. Be mindful when you are opening a door to hand out candy since a lot of animals that go missing burst through an opened door, trying to escape. If you must take your dog outside to relieve himself, make sure he’s appropriately leashed or, better yet, harnessed. Hold tight to the leash, even in your backyard.”

Ateyo reminded pet owners to be there for their furry friends, comfort them and support them as they will most likely be scared as soon as the fireworks start.

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