During a visit on Friday 26th September to the Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre in Cardiff, the Member of Parliament for Caerphilly, Chris Evans, renewed his pledge to support annual campaigns led by the Dogs Trust, RSPCA and others about reducing the suffering dogs, wild animals, and people face during firework season.
The loud explosions caused by fireworks cause many dogs to develop an intense fear. However, there are things owners can do to help. It can help to find out when and where local events are taking place, ensure dogs are indoors and not alone while fireworks are going off, and close windows and doors. Most importantly, owners need to make sure their dog feels safe, supported, and secure.
This is not the first time Mr. Evans has raised this topic. This time last year Mr Evans tabled a question to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Ed Miliband MP, encouraging action on the impact fireworks have on wild animals and pets. The Minister at the time provided reassurance that it works with groups to help minimise the harmful impacts.
Mr Evans said: “I want to welcome the work the Dogs Trust and other organisations do to help dogs and their owners, especially at this time of year. It was a pleasure to meet them and see again the fantastic work they do. One of their big campaigns every year is about fireworks.
“Many dog owners across Caerphilly will know that this can be an extremely stressful time of year. The period approaching and after bonfire night can be a very positive time where communities come together for events, but there is a darker side.
“This year, I will be writing again to the Government to press for further action to protect dogs, wild animals, and people from suffering due to fireworks. There are many potential solutions, such as regulating for quieter fireworks, limiting fireworks to licensed public events, and taking animal welfare into account on event licenses. These must be taken seriously.”
Dewi John, Regional Public Affairs Officer at Dogs Trust said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Chris Evans MP to the Cardiff Rehoming Centre today to meet our dogs and discuss our call for a review of firework legislation across the UK, including for use to be limited to licensed public displays at certain times of the year.”
