While fireworks are quite normal for human beings and are a way of celebrating the new year, they are quite bad for animals, especially dogs.
When fireworks go off, most dogs are scared and feel trapped. The dogs then try to run from the fireworks and they end up on the streets where they risk being run over. Some also get lost.
All around the country, dogs get lost and hurt after New Year’s fireworks.
Twala Trust Animal Sanctuary a Goromonzi based non-profit that helps animals commented on the issue:
We rescued Bruno almost a year ago, after he was found injured and terrified on the streets of Harare after a fireworks display. Please think of all the animals that suffer because of fireworks. On 1 January every year, the shelters and vet surgeries are full of injured and lost dogs and cats, many of whom are never claimed by their owners. Birds abandon their nests and wild animals are killed and injured fleeing from fireworks. Please don’t set off fireworks this new year – it is such an easy thing NOT to do, with such a positive impact. If you have pets please stay home with them and keep them safe. Wishing you and your pets a safe and peaceful New year.
Please check out the Twala website for more about the sanctuary: www.twalatrust.co.zw