GROUPS are asking celebrations for the New Year be kinder to pets.
In a joint statement, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and the EcoWaste Coalition jointly appealed to the public to keep the New Year’s Eve festivities safe and less stressful for cats and dogs.
The appeal implored “with no safe space to go, the Asong Pinoys (aspins) and Pusang Pinoys (puspins) on the streets are more scared and traumatized when firecrackers are directly thrown at them by uncaring individuals who derive pleasure in seeing them run away in fear,” pointing out such cruelty to animals is punishable by law.
Anna Cabrera, executive director of PAWS, asked the ban on the use of firecrackers for both humans and animals welfare “As we do not add to the air and noise pollution - and we focus on other peaceful, more productive and less harmful ways to usher in the new year, the loud bangs, booms, crackling noises and whistles from firecrackers and fireworks are distressing for cats and dogs who are gifted with highly sensitive hearing , the thunderous sounds and flashing lights, especially on the days and hours leading to the New Year, provide no entertainment to our furry friends who are terrified and threatened by the noisy and warlike festivities.”
Thony Dizon, chemical safety campaigner of the EcoWaste Coalition, likewise, said “the air pollution from the ignition of firecrackers and fireworks that may cause disorientation, appetite loss and upset stomach among exposed cats and dogs.”
The Pet Poison Helpline, pets can develop gastrointestinal problems like vomiting, painful abdomen, and bloody diarrhea when firecrackers or fireworks are ingested, the severity of which will depend on the type and amount of firecrackers or fireworks ingested. (Maria Elena Catajan)