In and around the Mansfield area, over the past few weeks or so, there are increasing reports of dogs being poisoned. There have been various rumours as to the cause, ranging from ‘Blue green algae, to an abundance of fungi, to deliberate poisonings. Natural England are, apparently, conducting toxicology tests but these seem to be taking forever. I have now heard reports that similar incidents are being reported in Lincolnshire and Sheffield (see links below). If anyone has any relevant information, or has had similar happening in their areas, I would be extremely grateful to hear about it.
Please see links below, the first two are concerning the Mansfield area, and the second two are concerning Lincolnshire and Sheffield.
http://www.chad.co.uk/sherwood/Mystery-as-five-dogs-die.5687520.jp
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/nottinghamshire/8282045.stm
http://www.thisislincolnshire.co.uk/news/Red-alert-Lincoln-dog-poisonings/article-1404742-detail/article.html?authid=KXjlApAq67uAWqxwJN2uz7WxHVryI7hRXMz92n9usMuqtuBg1255081265287&cacheBust=lEY0jU3TnBxQ&success=true#community
http://www.lurcherlink.org/llink/forum/viewtopic.php?t=50109&sid=8df097cffefb8157871424bacfb8d36d
Protect pets when fireworks are around by following the Pet Firework Code!
www.petfireworkfear.co.uk
Cats
- Keep cats indoors.
- Close all windows and curtains and switch on music or the television to drown out the noise.
- Leave cats to take refuge in a corner if they wish. Do not try to tempt them out as this could cause more stress.
- Make sure cats are micro-chipped to ensure they can be returned if they escape and become lost.
Dogs
- Exercise dogs during the day.
- Never walk dogs while fireworks are being let off.
- As with cats, keep dogs indoors, close the curtains and play music or turn on the television to drown out the noise.
- Let dogs hide if they want to take refuge under furniture or in a corner.
- Make sure dogs are wearing a collar and tag and are micro-chipped in case they bolt and become lost.
To further minimise distress, ask your vet about a dog appeasing pheromone. This is a synthetic version of a chemical produced by a bitch shortly after she has given birth. The pheromone reassures newborn puppies and naturally calms them down. Scientists have discovered it also helps calm older dogs as well.
A simple plug-in diffuser that disperses the chemical into the room is available at most veterinary practices or on-line.
It is safe and easy to use.
Dogs that are particularly prone to becoming very distressed, discuss with your vet the possibility of using a sedatives. Remember, these should be given before the firework noise begins to allow them to take effect.
Small animals
Rabbits and guinea pigs and other small animals living outside should not be forgotten. They can also become very stressed from loud noises. Bring small animals indoors or into an outhouse or garden shed to give them extra protection.
Horses
Horses often bolt from firework noise and become injured. Always make sure horses, ponies and donkeys are stabled while fireworks are being let off. Make sure fireworks are not in view by closing the stable door.
Bonfires
Bonfires can be fatal for wildlife such as hedgehogs, which often crawl into them to sleep. Build bonfires as late as possible to reduce this risk and make sure you disturb the foundations of the bonfire to give any wildlife a chance to escape before it is lit.
Always clear up after a fireworks party – litter is hazardous to domestic and wild animals.
