The Cape of Good Hope Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has reported a significant increase in calls related to Guy Fawkes Day, with 81 incidents logged, up from 51 last year. This represents a 59% rise in calls, highlighting the growing concern over the impact of fireworks on animals. According to Belinda Abraham, Communications Manager at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, the organization received numerous calls for assistance during the Guy Fawkes response.
A dog in Delft, named Max, tragically had to be euthanized after suffering serious injuries while trying to escape the sound of fireworks. Max was inside his home when fireworks went off, and in his panic, he tried to squeeze between the security gate bars, resulting in severe injuries to his intestines and bladder. An SPCA collection officer rushed Max to a private veterinary practice for emergency treatment, but he had to be humanely euthanized.
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA responded to at least five animals that needed urgent veterinary care during the Guy Fawkes response. Eight inspectors worked through the night to address the influx of calls, with the inspectorate logging 81 incidents. Abraham emphasized that Max's death was preventable, stating, "Max should still be alive today. Our thoughts are with his family. Every bang carries into the homes around you. Please think of the animals inside and celebrate without fireworks."
The City of Cape Town also recorded a significant number of incidents related to the discharge of fireworks, with 243 incidents reported. These incidents included areas such as Saxonsea in Atlantis, Lentegeur, Hanover Park, Surrey Estate, Manenberg, Mamre, Bonteheuwel, and The Hague. The City's Law Enforcement spokesperson, Wayne Dyason, urged communities to assist officers in reporting the discharging of fireworks.
The City of Cape Town's Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) received reports of sporadic stone throwing and anti-social behavior, in addition to fireworks incidents. Dyason emphasized that the unnecessary disruption, noise nuisance, violence, and criminal elements that take advantage of disorderly situations have once again proved that there should be no place for Guy Fawkes in their communities.
The SPCA is urging residents to look out for animals that may still be frightened, injured, or displaced after Guy Fawkes. To report an animal in distress, residents can call the SPCA Inspectorate on 021 700 4158 or 021 700 4159. After hours, residents can call 083 326 1604. The organization is working to raise awareness about the impact of fireworks on animals and to promote responsible celebrations.
The rise in Guy Fawkes-related incidents highlights the need for communities to work together to prevent animal cruelty and promote public safety. The SPCA and the City of Cape Town are calling on residents to report incidents of fireworks discharge and to celebrate responsibly. By working together, they hope to see a decline in incidents next year and to create a safer environment for both humans and animals.
Key points
- The Cape of Good Hope SPCA reported a 59% rise in Guy Fawkes-related calls, with 81 incidents logged.
- A dog in Delft had to be euthanized after suffering serious injuries while trying to escape the sound of fireworks.
- The City of Cape Town recorded 243 incidents related to the discharge of fireworks.
