PAWS, EcoWaste Coalition remind public about dangers of firecrackers to pets
In a joint statement on Friday, December 27, the two organizations said that the loud sound created by firecrackers and fireworks are “distressing for cats and dogs who are gifted with highly sensitive hearing.” (Pixabay file photo)
A few more days before the new year comes in, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), together with the EcoWaste Coalition, reminded the public how the use of firecrackers can badly affect not only humans but also pets.
In a joint statement on Friday, December 27, the two organizations said that the loud sound created by 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,” PAWS executive director Anna Cabrera said.
Cabrera also warned that throwing firecrackers into an animal is punishable by law.
“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,” she said.
Meanwhile, EcoWaste’s Chemical Safety Campaigner Thony Dizon stressed that the air pollution caused by the ignition of firecrackers and fireworks can cause “disorientation, appetite loss, and upset stomach” to the cats and dogs.
He added that the ingestion of fragments and residues of firecrackers and fireworks, which have hazardous substances, may cause poisoning to their four-legged friends.
It can be recalled that President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order (EO) No. 28 which limits the use of firecrackers to community fireworks displays, in a bid to “minimize the risk of injuries and casualties.”
Earlier this year, the President said he will issue an EO that will totally ban its use in the country.
[READ: Duterte to issue EO totally banning use of firecrackers]
