The SPCA says New Year’s Eve tends to be extremely stressful on pets and as a result advise pet owners to not only boycott setting off crackers but to report neighbours who do partake in these firework displays to local police and their local municipalities.

OFM News spoke to lead inspector at the SPCA in Bloemfontein, Reinette Meyer, on how pet owners can help protect their beloved pets and keep them safe during this time.

“Keep your animals inside, give them a treat to eat and put on some music in the house just to keep them calm. You can also go to your local vet to give them medication to calm them during this time” says Meyer.

The SPCA further advises pet owners to ensure that their pets always have a collar with an identification tag and updated microchip. The Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality on the other end, has provided the disaster management control centre number in case of emergencies pertain to this evening’s celebrations arise: 051 406 66 66 or 051 409 9600.

OFM News