Firecrackers a nightmare for animals – PETA

MANILA, Philippines – The dazzling display of fireworks to welcome the New Year may be a delight for humans, but firecrackers, with their loud and sudden booms, are a nightmare for animals, the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) said.

Jason Baker, PETA international operations vice president, said it is important for pet owners to ensure that their pets are safe.

“Firecrackers are a nightmare for both domestic and wild animals,” he said in a statement.

The animal rights group advocates the total ban of firecrackers.

“To dogs, cats and other animals, firecrackers must seem more like World War III than a celebration. Many animals go missing because they panic and jump over fences or break chains; animals have even jumped through plate-glass windows in order to get away from the terrifying sounds,” Baker said.

“Some animals are reunited with their families, but others are never found or are hit by cars or killed in other ways as they flee,” he also said.

Believing that animals should not be abused in any way, PETA suggested that pet owners keep their cats and dogs indoors. They should be placed in a room where they feel safe with the windows and curtains closed during fireworks displays.

PETA asked the public to contact them at cellphone number 0999-888-7382 if they have information about an animal that was injured because of a firecracker.