A Caroline Springs veterinary behaviourist is urging pet owners to get their pets microchipped, keep the details up to date and create safe havens for their cats and dogs.
Marika Ley said pets often roamed the streets after fireworks shows or storms – and even though most were reunited with their owners, some were not.
“Dogs and cats – and dogs tend to be the ones that escape and roam the streets – are extremely sensitive to sound and hear it in much more detail than we can,” Ms Ley said. “It’s a natural part of a dog’s behaviour to be afraid of storms, but it can extend to the point where … they can start having the fear response for hours after the event.”
She urged pet owners to create safe havens in their homes for the animals in the event of “noisy events”.
“What we recommend to our clients is to create safe areas where [their] pets can retreat to feel comfortable,” she said.
There has been an increase in the number of animals being brought to the Caroline Springs Veterinary Hospital because of storms and fireworks.
Although most pets brought to the clinic have been microchipped and their details are up to date, there are many without chips or with incorrect details.
Ms Ley stressed the importance of microchipping, adding it could be the difference between reuniting pets with their owners or having them sent to a pound.
“Those animals that are not microchipped have less chance of being reunited with their owners,” Ms Ley said.
“And they’re the animals that often have to spend weeks in a pound waiting to have their owners come forth.”
She advised pet owners to see their local vet for behavioural advice.
More details
For the Caroline Springs Veterinary Hospital, call 8390 2266.
