Many animals find fireworks scary and the loud noise and bright flashes can cause pets to freeze up in fear or attempt to run away. One petrified puppy found herself stuck inside a 23-metre pipe while trying to escape the noise of fireworks during Diwali celebrations on Monday.
The tiny pup crawled into a drainpipe for safety and shelter away from the display, but "the more scared she became, the further she ventured - until it became impossible for her to retreat". An animal rescue team were called to the scene in South Africa and enlisted the help of plumbers to find the pooch with a smart camera.
Thankfully, after four long and tiresome hours, the shivering dog was retrieved and is now in safe hands.
The Kloof and Highway SPCA team, who responded to the call, posted the news on Facebook.
The statement read: "Amongst the loud bangs and chaos of last night's Diwali came a story of a little puppy so petrified she crawled into a 23 metre drain pipe rather than endure the pain she was suffering with the petrifying noises.
"When Inspector Petros Simamane and Field Officer Philani Nzama were called to the scene early this morning, it became apparent they would need a camera to ascertain exactly how far she had gone in.
"Ganga Plumbers were only too happy to assist with their camera as soon as they realized a little puppy was in dire need of being rescued.
"After over four hours of hard work, digging and sweat there was much to celebrate as the shivering little soul was finally retrieved by a tired but elated Inspectorate team.
"Once again, we would like to thank those that helped make this rescue possible and special mention to Ganga Plumbers for the use of the invaluable camera."
The rescue added: "Currently our little rescue is sleeping with a full tummy and wrapped safely in a fleece blanket.
"She is one of the fortunate ones we were able to assist, but let us spare a thought to all those animals who last night spent the night petrified and frightened while people continued to ignore our pleas to refrain from loud fireworks."
You can donate to the Kloof and Highways SPCA team directly on the website to keep their heroic work going.
To prevent your dog from running away this Bonfire Night, follow Battersea's top tips to help make the fireworks season more enjoyable.
Battersea's tips to help dogs this Bonfire Night
Make sure your pet is microchipped
Animals can flee when they get scared. If your pet does run away from home while fireworks are going off, you can easily be reunited if they're microchipped and their chip details are up to date.
It's also a legal requirement for all dogs to be microchipped.
Avoid letting your dog outdoors
By keeping your dog indoors when fireworks are going off, it prevents them being caught out and from getting scared if they're outside.
Make sure you take your dog for a nice long walk before dark.
Create a 'safe space' inside your home
If your pet is scared, they may take comfort in hiding away.
If your dog is used to being in a crate, cover it and leave it open with blankets inside, or alternatively a table draped with a blanket can make a great retreat.
Don't confine your pet to just one room
If your dog or cat becomes stressed, they may hurt themselves trying to get out, so allow them easy access to all safe areas of the house.
Some animals may also be most comfortable curled up in their usual spot with you; let them do whatever suits them the best.
Keep the TV or radio on
To reduce the sudden impact of the sound of fireworks, keep the TV or radio on.
Playing certain types of music that don't have a repetitive beat or any sudden loud noises, like classical music or reggae, can be very calming for pets.
Keep your pet distracted with a treat
A new toy or treat can be a great way to distract your dog or cat from the noise of fireworks. For dogs, try a long-lasting chew toy or a Kong packed with tasty treats.
Act normally
Animals are very perceptive creatures, and if they notice you behaving strangely (like following them around and fussing over them) they'll sense that something is wrong.
If you behave normally, it will show them that the fireworks are nothing to worry about and it may help decrease their anxiety.
Keep your curtains closed
It may not just be the sound of fireworks that stress your pet -the flashes can worry them too.
It's important to make sure your curtains are closed and windows are covered to block out any sudden bursts of light.
Talk to your vet
A vet may be able to provide some medication to help reduce your pet's anxiety.
Bear in mind that any medicinal treatment should always be accompanied by a behaviour management plan and should only be used as a last resort.
Do you have a dog story to share? Email nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
