Guide Dogs for the Blind and Fireworks

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Animals are fleeing in panic; some bump headlong into the next car hurting themselves severely. Others go and hide themselves trembling for fear. Others again grab objects thrown towards them with their mouth imagining they were toys, with the effect that they explode in their mouth; dogs die in the presence of their masters who remain shocked and dismayed ("Dog is killed by firework thugs", Manchester Online, 11.10.2002 http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/news/stories/Detail_LinkStory=21636.html / "Firework kills family pet", Manchester Online, 11.10.2002 http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/news/stories/Detail_LinkStory=21620.html / "Vet: Dog Likely Burned With Fireworks", TheIndyChannel.com News, 2002, http://www.theindychannel.com/news/861696/detail.html / "Teens sought after puppies killed by fireworks. Attacks also injured another dog in Oklahoma town", 8.7.2004, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5331549/ / "Boys held for cracker in dog's mouth", South Africa 3.1.2002, http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=ct20020103202408416F620569). The above description does not stem from a battlefield or an earthquake site: it is the vivid description of how animals experience fireworks.

For us human beings fireworks have become unbearably loud and have resulted to many thousands each year in inner-ear injuries and even in final hearing damage. Many animal species have an extremely sensitive ear and a cracker, therefore, impairs their hearing more than our human ear! Cats hear better than dogs and much better than human beings; they suffer from loud noises at least as much as a person with a heavy headache. A cat or a dog which is exposed to the bursting of a cracker can endure a long-lasting traume, even an irreversible ear damage. Fireworks lasting for hours are an acoustical torture for animals. Bunnies, guinea pigs, birds etc. are easily frightened and can suffer, as consequence of the loud noise, of a heart impact.

Fireworks can release heaviest health damage to animals up to shock conditions with death sequences. 

Birds can lose orientation for quite some time because of the unexpected glare of fireworks rockets.

Animals which get too near to exploding fireworks become victims of burns and eye damage.

There are also animals which are hit with fireworks intentionally and thus are severely and/or deadly hurt.

Panic can also create "stomach upsets" with animals or induce over-reactions. Non-acceptance of food, diarrhoe, severe trembling or continuous howling are typical evidences.

It should be prohibited to let-off fireworks in residential areas. But protected zones for birds and wild animals also (like parks and public gardens in cities, forests, zoological gardens etc.) where animals can find safety should in the future be closed to fireworks.

Fireworks and their effects are demanding too much of human beings, of animals and nature.

        You find the report 'Fireworks and Animals: A Survey of Scottish Vets in 2001' under 

        http://www.angelfire.com/co3/NCFS/survey/sspca/scottishspca.html.

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HORRIBLE STORIES ABOUT FIREWORKS AND ANIMALS

Sick firework yobs blow off dog's tail

Hyde/England. A pet dog had its tail blown off in a sick attack by fireworks yobs.

Meanie, a five-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier, needed surgery on the base of his tail for the horrific injury. Another firework was attached to Meanie's collar, leaving him with badly singed ears. He went missing from the family home on November 7, 2010 and was recovered three days later.

Source: "Sick firework yobs blow off dog's tail", 12.11.2010, http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/news/s/1371197_sick_firework_yobs_blow_off_dogs_tail?all_comments=1

Cat found with 'horrendous burns'

Blackburn/England. A cat 'left to die' with 'horrendous burns' in a Blackburn park could have had a firework tied to its tail. The stricken animal was discovered inside a cardboard box by a dog walker in Corporation Park. She had suffered severe burns to her head, neck, face and feet and had been 'left for dead', according to vets who have examined the pet.

Source: Cat found with ‘horrendous burns’ in Blackburn park, 10.11.2010, http://www.thisislancashire.co.uk/news/8626453.Cat_found_with__horrendous_burns__in_Blackburn_park/

Dog died when it tried to escape fireworks

Tauranga/North Island of New Zealand. A frightened American bull terrier died when it tried to escape over a fence and got its collar stuck, choking to death. The dog's owner was devastated by the incident, as she thought keeping the dog in the garden while she set off fireworks was safe.

Source: "Call for fireworks ban following animal deaths", 8.11.2010, http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/call-fireworks-ban-following-animal-deaths-3883452

Horse broke legs when it tried to espape fireworks

Tauranga/North Island of New Zealand. A 12-year-old thoroughbred horse tripped and broke both its front legs after bolting from a group who had sneaked into his paddock at the Greenhithe Pony Club to set off fireworks. The horse had to be put down.

Source: "Call for fireworks ban following animal deaths", 8.11.2010, http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/call-fireworks-ban-following-animal-deaths-3883452

Cat and duck 'killed by fireworks'

Salisbury/England. A cat and a duck found burned to death are thought to have been attacked with fireworks. The cat was discovered by a dog walker in Harnham on November 6, 2010, and the duck was found in Queen Elizabeth Gardens on November 5, 2010. Firework remains were found nearby.

Source: "Cat and duck 'killed by fireworks' in Salisbury", 7.11.2010, http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-wiltshire-11706021

Dublin thugs set firework off in dog's mouth

Dublin/Irland. A young dog has become one of the early victims of Halloween savagery, after its jaw was blown off when thugs apparently stuck a lit firework into its mouth. Gardai are now trying to track down a group of youths behind the horrific incident which happened on Cardiffsbridge Road in Finglas, Dublin, about 6.30. The female terrier lost the entire bottom of its jaw and a huge amount of blood. The Dublin SPCA says it was impossible to repair the injuries and there was no choice but to put the dog down. 15.9.2010

Source:

"Gardai hunt youths who detonate firework in dog's mouth", 16.9.2010, http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/gardai-hunt-youths-who-detonate-firework-in-dogs-mouth-473900.html

"Press digest – Ireland – Sept 17", 17.9.2010, http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE68G07120100917 

"Dog put down after fireworks savagery", 17.9.2010, http://www.independent.ie/national-news/dog-put-down-after-fireworks-savagery-2341207.html 

"Dublin thugs set firework off in dog's mouth", 17.9.2010, http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/republic-of-ireland/evil-thugs-set-firework-off-in-dogs-mouth-14951486

Arrest after dog injured by firework

America. Tulalip Tribal police officers say they were forced to kill a dog after the animal fetched a lit firework that exploded in its mouth. A 52-year-old man was arrested in connection with the July 8, 2010, incident. David Nahinu appeared July 12, 2010, in Everett District Court where a judge ordered him held on $10,000 for investigation of first-degree animal cruelty.

Nahinu was arrested July 9, 2010, after police searched his home. They found fireworks similar to the one believed to have injured his neighbor's dog, as well as illegal fireworks.

The firework that exploded in the dog's mouth is typically launched into the sky from a cardboard tube, not thrown on the ground.

Nahinu allegedly told investigators that he lobbed the firework toward the dog, knowing the animal would play with it and the animal grabbed it and walked away, then it exploded.

The dog, a German Shepherd mix, had severe injuries to his mouth and face. An officer shot the injured animal to end the dog's suffering.

Source: "Arrest after dog injured by firework", 13.7.2010, http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20100713/NEWS01/707139901&news01ad=1

Firecrackers severly injure cat

Dugi Otok/Republic of Croatia. A thug who tied firecrackers to the legs of a cat causing severe injuries is being sought by police. The cat's legs were badly burnt and he lost his left ear and several teeth.

Source: "Firecrackers severly injure cat", 23.4.2010, http://www.croatiantimes.com/news/General_News/2010-04-23/10546/Firecrackers_severly_injure_cat

Pony euthanized after fireworks injury

Dartford/England. A pony had to be put down on November 6, 2009, after he panicked and crashed into a lamppost during fireworks.

Source: "U.K. Pony euthanized after fireworks injury", 9.11.2009, http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=15242

Fireworks thugs tie rocket to cat

England. A cat had a firework strapped to her back and set alight in a sickening attack. The terrified cat suffered horrific burns and had to be put down. She was in agony for up to a week before she was discovered near Dalduff Farm Shop at Crosshill, near Maybole, Ayrshire on October 29, 2009.

Source:

"Firework thugs tie rocket to cat", 2.11.2009, http://www.thesun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/news/2711082/Cat-dies-after-having-a-firework-strapped-to-its-back-and-lit.html

"Firework link in cat death horror", 2.11.2009, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/glasgow_and_west/8338430.stm 

"Terrified cat discovered in Crosshill after sickening firework attack", 6.11.2009, http://www.ayrshirepost.net/ayrshire-news/local-news-ayrshire/ayr-news/2009/11/06/terrified-cat-discovered-in-crosshill-after-sickening-firework-attack-102545-25085027/

Someone put a live cracker in bull's mouth

Alambagh/India. In a case of gruesome cruelty to animals, a stray bull suffered about 80% burn injuries besides breaking its lower jaw after someone allegedly put a live cracker in its mouth. As a result of this inhuman act, the bull is unable to eat or drink. 5.10.2009 

Source: "Bull's mouth, animal severely injured", 9.10.2009, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/bulls-mouth-animal-severely-injured/articleshow/5104032.cms

Teens killed cat with firework

Sacramento, Calif./America. On July 29, 2009, police have arrested David Hui-Baio Yang (19) in connection with the death of a cat killed with explosives, along 63^rd Street. Police say Yang tied up a cat with tape on July 28, 2009, trapped it with a construction cone on a street and then dropped a large firecracker, possibly an M-80, into the cone. The cat died in the blast. Yang was charged of malicious maiming of an animal.

Source:

"Teens killed cat with firework, police say", 29.7.2009, http://www.kcra.com/news/20211769/detail.html

"19-year-old accused of blowing up cat", 29.7.2009, http://www.kcra.com/news/20221545/detail.html

"Sacramento police say man blew up cat," 30.7.2009, http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=news/state&id=6940544

Another dog strangled fleeing fireworks

Palmerston/Australia. A family want private firework displays restricted on Territory Day after they feared their house was going to burn down when an overgrown vacant block beside their property ignited from cracker sparks. And their barely one-year-old dog Lucy strangled herself to death on her chain in fear of the loud crackers going off around their Farrar home.

Source: "Family nightmare as dog dies of fear 'in war zone'", 3.7.2009, http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2009/07/03/63925_ntnews.html

Dog strangled escaping fireworks

Rosebery/Australia. Another dog is dead from fireworks being set off illegally in the Northern Territory. Residents of Haydon St say they have been terrorised by cracker fiends setting them off in the middle of the night. The fireworks have been being set off more than a week after Territory Day on July 1, the only day crackers are legal.

Dog Fonzie had been trying to escape the noise of the fireworks and tried to scale a fence but got his collar stuck and hung himself. 10.7.2009

Source:

"Crackers drive dog to hanging death", 14.7.2009, http://www.news.com.au/story/0,27574,25780765-421,00.html

"Crackers killed our dog", 14.7.2009, http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2009/07/14/66385_ntnews.html

Cat killed with fireworks

Baltimore/America. Animal Control Officers found a dead cat bound with a chain and rope to a fence and severely burned by firecrackers in the 3700 block of Lewiston Ave. near Arlington Elementary School in Northwest Baltimore on June 17, 2009. Deborah Rahl of the Baltimore Area Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCA) told WBAL News that firecrackers had been placed under the cats head, and the firecrackers exploded.

Source:

"Authorities probe cat killing", 18.6.2009, http://wbal.com/apps/news/templates/story.aspx?articleid=29655&zoneid=2 

2Baltimore officials concerned by animal torture", 18.6.2009, http://wjz.com/wireapnewsfmd/Baltimore.officials.concerned.2.1050237.html

"O'Malley wants review of md. animal cruelty laws", 19.6.2009, http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/06/19/AR2009061901030.html 

"O'Malley asks for review of animal cruelty laws", 19.6.2009, http://breakingnews.baltimoresun.com/2009/06/19/omalley-asks-for-review-of-animal-cruelty-laws/

Sheep's jaw blown off with fireworks

Mauao/New Zealand. Police are hunting three men who set off fireworks in a sheep's mouth, slit its stomach, kicked it and dragged it down a track on the mountain at Mt Maunganui. The remains of fireworks were still in the sheep's mouth and its jaw had been blown away. The "cowardly, despicable act" has been described as the worst case of animal cruelty in the region. 19.4.2009

Source:

"Animal cruelty: Sheep's jaw blown off with fireworks", 20.4.2009, http://livenews.com.au/world/animal-cruelty-sheeps-jaw-blown-off-with-fireworks/2009/4/20/203547 

"Trio's crackers blow apart sheep's mouth", 21.4.2009, http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm%3Fc_id%3D1%26objectid%3D10567660&ct=ga&cd=IfWIp94xJPE&usg=AFQjCNGq5V6_1QqbveKB1JZXgJ8Z5D7FfA

Parrot spooked to death by fireworks

Loxahatchee Groves, Florida/America. Officials at the Rare Species Conservatory Foundation are blaming the loud noise from New Year's Eve fireworks for the death of a rare red-browed Amazon parrot. They found him on New Year's Day with severe head and face injuries. The director of the conservation center, Paul Reillo, says the injuries indicate that the bird had thrashed itself to death against its enclosure; the animals always get spooked by the fireworks but have never reacted so violently. "This guy could have lived to be 50 or 60 years old and could have produced a generation of wildlife. The tragedy is that this animal's life is sacrificed for absolutely no reason," Mr Reillo said. - The parrot was part of a recovery project to breed the rare species and reintroduce it to its natural habitat in the lowland humid forests of Brazil. 1.1.2009

Source:

"Parrot spooked to death by fireworks", 2.1.2009, http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/orl-bk-parrot-fireworks-010209,0,7349502.story

"Rare bird, spooked by fireworks, thrashes itself to death", 1.1.2009, http://www.palmbeachpost.com/localnews/content/local_news/epaper/2009/01/01/0101deadbird.html

Firework hooligans punished for horse's death

Ijsselmuiden near Zwolle/Netherlands. Four teenagers, who caused a horse to injure itself so severely that it died, are being punished by being made to observe the animal's corpse. The boys, the youngest aged 12 and the oldest 15, terrified the horse by setting fireworks off close to it. The animal bolted, slipped and broke three of its legs.

Source: "Firework hooligans punished for horse's death", 31.12.2008, http://www.radionetherlands.nl/news/zijlijn/6117722/Firework-hooligans-punished-for-horses-death

Dog strangled fleeing fireworks

Beacon Bay/South Africa. Spaddles, a six-year-old ridgeback, apparently reacted in terror to the noise of exploding fireworks and jumped over a two-metre high wall into the neighbour's yard. The dog, which was strangled by its collar and chain, was found hanged by the neighbour. 31.12.2008

Source: "Dog strangled fleeing fireworks", 3.1.2009, http://www.dispatch.co.za/article.aspx?id=283027

Kitten dies after suffering severe burns from fireworks

Brooks County, South Georgia/America. Veterinarians are working to save the lives of a pair of kittens that were tortured with fireworks and set ablaze near their owner's rural  home on December 20, 2008. Little Jim, an 8-month-old tabby, suffered 3^rd-degree burns over 40% of his body. Little Jim's sister, Blackie, sustained 3^rd-degree burns on her feet, belly, face and head. A portion of Blackie's ears had to be amputated because the burns were so severe. The veterinarian believes a sparkler or Roman candle was inserted in the cat's rectums and they were doused with lighter fluid and set on fire.

Source: "Vets work to save tortured kittens. The two cats suffered severe burns, a third was put down", 2.1.2009, http://www.jacksonville.com/news/georgia/2009-01-02/vets_work_to_save_tortured_kittens

Swan killed by firework

Salisbury/England. A swan was burnt to death by a firework in what has been described as a sickening attack. Officers from Wildlife Rescue were called to Broken Bridges, at Lower Bernerton, where they found the blackened body of a female swan. They believe a firework was thrown at it. 31.10.2008

Fireworks spook horse to its death

New Zealand. Fireworks set off after midnight on October 27, 2008, next to the Te Atatu Pony Club, scared a 14-year-old horse so much it ran into a fence, severely hurting itself and had to be put down on October 28, 2008, after it has been taken to hospital. "She had fractured several of her bones and shoulder; and elbow was shattered and she'd rushed bones in her face and she had internal bleeding in her brain," said her owner. 27.10.2008

Source:

"Horse put down after cracker scare", 29.10.2008, http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10539829 

"Fireworks spook horse to its death", 29.10.2008, http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/536641/2242750

Dog dies after fireworks attack

Orbiston Kennels in Bellshill in North Lanarkshire/England. A dog (9) is believed to have suffered a heart attack after being hit by a firework, thrown by a gang of youths, at Orbiston Kennels. Kennels manager revealed that the kennels had been attacked by teenage gangs on a number of occasions over the past few months and on this day, there was about 15 fireworks thrown at the kennels over a three-hour period. The kennels house up to 40 dogs at a time. 26.10.2008

Source: "Dog dies after fireworks attack", 28.10.2008, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/glasgow_and_west/7695365.stm

Dog hits car after fireworks scare

Northampton/England. A two-year-old Irish wolfhound collided in Parkfield Avenue with a car after being frightened when a loud firework was set off nearby while out for walk with his owner. He was checked by a vet and suffered no injuries. It was late afternoon and not even dark, so the fireworks were completely unexpected. – The incident highlights the dangers of fireworks to family pets. 21.10.2008

Swan put down after act of extreme cruelty

Dublin/Ireland. A young swan has had to be put down by a vet after his beak was blown off and its tongue was shredded when a firework deliberately inserted into bread given to him at the Stardust Memorial Park, Coolock, exploded. 22.9.2008

Source:

"Young swan put down after act of extreme cruelty" (with pictures), 24.9.2008, http://www.independent.ie/national-news/swan-put-down-after-act-of-extreme-cruelty-1481464.html

Dog killed by exposure to fireworks

Eureka/America. Abby, a 2-year-old Brittany Spaniel suffocated after a lit firework known as a flower was tossed through the car's partially open window around 11 p.m. while the car was parked on the 3300 block of Trinity Street. Passers-by used a garden hose to put out the fire. The unresponsive dog was pulled from the vehicle and Humboldt Fire District firefighters responded and attempted to revive Abby, but could not. It appears the dog died after being exposed to too many toxins from fireworks found inside the vehicle. 4.7.2008

Source:

"Fortuna city council may nix marijuana dispensaries. Dog killed by exposure to fireworks", 6.7.2008, http://eurekareporter.com/article/080706-fortuna-city-council-may-nix-marijuana-dispensaries 

"'Abby Account' fields donations for reward in dog's death", 13.7.2008, http://www.times-standard.com/localnews/ci_9867454 

Fireworks caused three horses to panick and injure themselves

Bronson Township/America. Twelve horses were loose in a pasture when likely bottle-rockets were launched near their barn, bouncing off the roof of the building. The horses were spooked and ran wildly through the pasture. One of the horses suffered an injury to its legs and two horses injured hooves. Tenants renting a house on the property discharged the fireworks. 3.7.2008

Source: "Cops and Courts: Residents may face charges for discharging fireworks that scared horses", 11.7.2008, http://www.morningjournal.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=19844638&BRD=1699&PAG=461&dept_id=46371&rfi=6

Cat 'blown up' in firework horror

Achna Forest/Cyprus. Somebody tortured a cat to death: The helpless animal was found blown to pieces after culprits placed firecrackers in the cat's rectum and ears. The incident occurred sometime before April 14, 2008.

Source: 

"Cat 'blown up' in firework horror", 19.4.2008, http://www.famagusta-gazette.com/default.asp?sourceid=&smenu=69&twindow=Default&mad=No&sdetail=2655&wpage=1&skeyword=&sidate=&ccat=&ccatm=&restate=&restatus=&reoption=&retype=&repmin=&repmax=&rebed=&rebath=&subname=&pform=&sc=2350&hn=famagusta-gazette&he=.com

"Cat blown to pieces", 19.4.2008, http://www.cyprus-mail.com/news/main.php?id=38813&cat_id=1

Juveniles charged with animal cruelty after spooking horse with fireworks

Suffolk, VA/America. Suffolk police have filed animal cruelty charges against a 17-year-old girl and her 14-year-old brother for using fireworks to intentionally frighten a horse that was being walked on a lead by a 12-year-old girl. When the horse heard the noise it was so scared it ran off and injured itself. 5.4.2008

Source:

"Two juveniles arrested after spooking horse with fireworks", 8.4.2008, http://www.wavy.com/Global/story.asp?S=8128677&nav=23iidz1W 

"Juveniles charged with animal cruelty after spooking horse with fireworks", 7.4.2008, http://www.wtkr.com/Global/story.asp?S=8128564&nav=ZolHbyvj

"Fireworks spooked horse in Suffolk; juveniles charged", 7.4.2008, http://www.wvec.com/news/suffolk/stories/wvec_local_040708_horse_spook_fireworks.3e4b2d50.html

Sick thugs tied a firework to a cat's tail

Scotland. A cat is lucky to be alive after suffering horrific burns when sick thugs tied a firework to its tail. The cat has been left with permanent scars and has also suffered nerve damage to his tail. The cat was found in the Bishopmill area of Elgin a few weeks after bonfire night on November 5, 2007.

Source: "A 'tail' of one cat's road to recovery", 18.1.2008, http://www.northern-scot.co.uk/news/fullstory.php/aid/3818/A_'tail'_of_one_cat's_road_to_recovery.html

Frightened dog chews door to escape fireworks

Fairfield/Neuseeland. Levi, a Staffordshire cross, was so terrified by fireworks he chewed his way through the aluminium garage door, leaving a "massive pool of blood" behind him. The dog injured his paws and mouth in his desperate scramble to escape the fireworks near his home. 16.11.2007

Source:

"Frightened dog chews door to escape fireworks", 20.11.2007, http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/waikatotimes/4280702a6579.html

"Fireworks-mad dog chews through door", 21.11.2007, http://www.stuff.co.nz/4281708a10.html

Dog dies escaping fireworks

Manukau, New Zealand. A dog died while trying to escape from fireworks. He had been tied up in a backyard and became so terrified it tried to jump a fence, hanging itself in the process. 5.11.2007

Source: "Dog dies escaping fireworks", 8.11.2007, http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/sundaystartimes/auckland/4264968a6497.html

Turtle firework cruelty condemned

Wrexham, England. In a garden in Rutland Road, a turtle was found, taped to a rocket-type firework with tape. The firework had been lit and the turtle suffered a bash to the head, bleeding from the mouth and a cracked shell. 5.11.2007

Source:

"Turtle firework cruelty condemned", 9.11.2007, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/north_east/7086894.stm

"RSPCA blasts Virgin advert as terrorised terrapin is tied to lit firework", 9.11.2007, http://www.politics.co.uk/press-releases/opinion-former-index/transport/rspca-blasts-virgin-advert-as-terrorised-terrapin-tied-lit-firework-$481280.htm

Firework leads to death of foal

Pensnett, Brierley Hill, West Midlands, England. At the Fens Pool Nature Reserve, a six-month-old foal had to be put down after a firework spooked it, causing it to bolt and break its ankle. 4.11.2007

Source: 

"Firework leads to death of foal", 9.11.2007, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/west_midlands/7087055.stm 

"RSPCA blasts Virgin advert as terrorised terrapin is tied to lit firework", 9.11.2007, http://www.politics.co.uk/press-releases/opinion-former-index/transport/rspca-blasts-virgin-advert-as-terrorised-terrapin-tied-lit-firework-$481280.htm

Firework 'torture' of sanctuary birds

England. More than 400 terrified birds endured over six hours of torture each day, from Friday to Monday, after the half-a-mile firework exclusion zone surounding the Norden sanctuary was flouted.

The zone ruling, which can lead to prosecution for anyone caught causing distress to a wild animal or bird, was introduced six years ago to protect the sanctuary after 12 birds were frightened to death by loud bangs and exploding rockets. 2.-5.11.2007

Source: "Firework 'torture' of sanctuary birds", 6.11.2007, http://www.rochdaleobserver.co.uk/news/s/1023044_firework_torture_of_sanctuary_birds

Rockets blamed as horse vanishes

Helensville, New Zealand. Ten-year-old part thoroughbred mare Savannah disappeared from her paddock just before Guy Fawkes weekend. Spent rockets were found in her paddock, apparently having been fired across the Kaipara river. The owner fear the horse may have been struck by one of the rockets, causing her to panic and run into the tidal river.

Source: "Rockets blamed as champion horse vanishes", 11.11.2007, http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/4/story.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10475245

Pony hurt in fireworks panic

Near Opiki, New Zealand. A horse on a farm was badly injured after being scared by fireworks and at one stage it seemed she may have to be destroyed. Shilo suffered a severed tendon and a deep cut on her near hind leg which has gone through to the bone. The injuries are thought to have been caused when Shilo was panicked by a neighbour's fireworks and got tangled in a fence she tried to jump. She wasn't found until the next morning. 2.11.2007

Source: " Pony hurt in fireworks panic", 8.11.2007, http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/eveningstandard/4266231a20379.html

Rabbit attached on firework - killed

Wye, Kent, England. Two dwarf lop-eared rabbits were taken from a cage in a garden in Bridge Street. A lit firework was attached to one of the rabbits. The firework exploded, killing the rabbit. 2.11.2007

Source: "RSPCA blasts Virgin advert as terrorised terrapin is tied to lit firework", 9.11.2007, http://www.politics.co.uk/press-releases/opinion-former-index/transport/rspca-blasts-virgin-advert-as-terrorised-terrapin-tied-lit-firework-$481280.htm

Fireworks blamed for dog's death

Robertsbridge, East Sussex, England. Heather Mills' recent £10,000 firework display to celebrate her daughter's fourth birthday, scared her neighbour's dog to death, the pooch's owner has claimed. Sandra Rowbury says her five-year-old healthy Weimaraner bitch "Glow" was terrified by the loud explosions and suffered a fatally bloated gut. Rowbury claims the 20-minute display – which animal rights activist Heather failed to warn fellow residents about – also caused 15 of her horses to stampede in terror. 28.10.2007

Source:

"Mucca 'scared my dog to death'", 30.10.2007, http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/article403011.ece

"Mills' fireworks blamed for neighbour's dog death", 30.10.2007, http://www.contactmusic.com/news.nsf/article/mills%20fireworks%20blamed%20for%20neighbours%20dog%20death_1048293 

"Heather Mills kills dog", 30.10.2007, http://www.femalefirst.co.uk/celebrity/Heather+Mills-18251.html

Firework send pet dog berserk

England. A traumatised dog has been prescribed tranquillisers after it ripped a door apart in a bid to escape from exploding fireworks. Petrified Chinook, an Alaskan malamute, was so spooked that he tried to get through a cat flap, splitting his mouth and wrecking the back door. 27.10.2007

Source: "Fireworks send pet dog berserk", 30.10.2007, http://www.thisisdorset.net/display.var.1795713.0.fireworks_send_pet_dog_berserk.php

Fireworks blamed for dog's death

Dumfries, Scotland. Police have condemned the reckless use of fireworks after an incident in Dumfries which led to a dog's death. The pet was being walked by its owner in the Terregles area of the town when it took fright after fireworks were let off nearby. The animal ran onto the A75, where it was struck and killed by a passing car. 23.10.2007

Source: "Fireworks blamed for dog's death", 26.10.2007, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/south_of_scotland/7064199.stm

The kitten whose tail was blown apart by a firework

Donaghadee, County Down/Northern Ireland. A three-month-old kitten has had to have its tail amputated after youths tied a rocket to it and set it a light. 21.10.2007

Source:

"Kitten injured in firework attack", 22.10.2007, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7057195.stm

"The kitten whose tail was blown apart by a firework", 23.10.2007, http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/article3088022.ece

Puppy death sparks calls for ban on sale of fireworks

Aylesbury/England. Ringo, a seven-month-old puppy Jack Russell, has died after he was scared by fireworks set off by a group of youths and ran in front of a car. The accident happened earlier this month.

Source: "Puppy death sparks calls for ban on sale of fireworks", 24.10.2007, http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/ontheagenda/Puppy-death-sparks-calls-for.3409779.jp

Youths threw fireworks at terrified cow

Belfast/England. Police say they received a report that a group of youths had thrown fireworks at a terrified cow on August 26.

Chief executive of the USPCA said: "The mindless use of fireworks to terrorise animals is reprehensible. It causes both physical and emotional damage to the creatures targeted."

Source: "Fury as sick thugs throw fireworks at terrified cow", 28.8.2007, http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/article2901074.ece

Fireworks shock kills family's dog

St Leonards/England. A family say the eruption from an exploding firework frightened their greyhound Jony so much she died of a heart attack. Jony was being taken for an evening walk when a loud explosion terrified the poor canine. The dog's owner managed to get the dog back to her house, where Jony (9) died of a heart attack. 19.8.2007 

Source: "Fireworks shock kills family's beloved dog", 12.9.2007, http://iclanarkshire.icnetwork.co.uk/eknews/news/tm_headline=fireworks-shock-kills-family-x2019-s-beloved-dog&method=full&objectid=19779941&siteid=50144-name_page.html

A farmer is demanding compensation after a firework display killed one of his sheep and more than 20 unborn lambs

Somerset/England. A farmer is demanding compensation after the Weare First School firework display killed one of his sheep and more than 20 unborn lambs. The loud noise of the fireworks display disturbed the sheep in the field next door and one fell into a rhyne and drowned. 20 ewes also lost their unborn lambs due to the firework display.

The farmer was so distraught over the death of his sheep that he threw the carcass into a crowd of children and parents watching the display.

Source: "Dead sheep is thrown into school playground", 23.7.2007, http://www.thewestonmercury.co.uk/content/twm/news/story.aspx?brand=Westonmercury&category=news&tBrand=westonmercury&tCategory=znews&itemid=WeED23%20Jul%202007%2010%3A30%3A19%3A020

Dog killed in house fire caused by fireworks

Fairburn/America. No one was home during the early morning hours when a car full of males aged 15-21 drove by the home at 304 West Broad Street and threw lit fireworks onto the porch. The fire did severe damage to the home. And though the residents were not at home, the fire killed the family's dog inside the house. 14.7.2007

Source: "Arrests near in arson", 23.7.2007, http://www.thecitizen.com/node/18863

Woman: Illegal fireworks killed my horse

Chester County/America. Someone in a neighboring West Nottingham Township development set off a barrage of illegal fireworks, which spooked three horses and caused them to break through a combination electric-wood fence they normally avoided. The horses ran scared and out of control by the loud booms and lightning-like flashes of the fireworks. One horse, Charlie, has his left front leg dangling and broken. The owner was forced to put down her horse. 4.7.2007

Source: "Woman: Illegal fireworks killed my horse", 6.7.2007, http://www.nbc10.com/news/13631697/detail.html

Horses became tangled in their tethers over the Fourth of July

Hanapepe/America. On July 6^th, one horse was found dead and another unable to reach food or water, when their owner apparently left them tethered over the Fourth of July in Hanapepe Valley.

Their owner (31) was cited by Kauai Humane Society officials for misdemeanor animal cruelty.

The two adult horses became tangled in their tethers. The mare appeared to have choked to death, when its rope got caught between her legs and pinned her to the ground. The other horse was tangled up tight to a tree and was unable to reach food or water.

Source:

"Dead horse's owner called cruel", 7.7.2007, http://starbulletin.com/2007/07/07/news/story11.html

"Horse owner charged with animal cruelty", 7.7.2007, http://www.kauaiworld.com/articles/2007/07/07/news/news02.txt

Illegal fireworks led to horse's death

Kingston/America. Fireworks spooked one of a prized show horses, Molly, causing the 5-year-old mare to break her knee on July 4. She was euthanized on July 5.

Source: "Owner: Illegal fireworks led to NK horse's death", 6.7.2007, http://www.kitsapsun.com/news/2007/jul/06/owner-illegal-fireworks-led-to-horses-death/

Dog hanging itself

North of Omaha/America. A pit bull died while apparently trying to escape from the noise from fireworks, said a speaker of Nebraska Humane Society.

Neighbors saw the dog chained up in its backyard running around like crazy as the fireworks in the neighborhood were being set off. Then the dog jumped up on its doghouse and jumped over the fence, hanging itself. It was dead before the neighbors could get to it.

Source: "Fireworks accidents injure children, adults", 6.7.2007, http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=2798&u_sid=10071979

Kitten killed by fireworks

Church Hill, Hawkins County, Tenn./America. A woman at 710 Okolona Road found on July 8 her missing baby kitten dead near her home. His body was twisted, and he had fireworks in his mouth. The kitten also was covered with fire extinguisher dust.

Source: "Kitten killed with fireworks near Church Hill", 10.7.2007, http://www.timesnews.net/article.php?id=9001993

Firecracker forced into cat's mouth

America. An investigation is underway into a case of animal abuse after Mason County deputies say someone forced a firecracker into a cat's mouth in Custer Township. The cat lost an eye, had a broken jaw, cracked teeth and other injuries. 16.6.2007

Source: "Firecracker forced into cat's mouth",19.6.2007, http://www.tv7-4.com/Global/story.asp?S=6675041&nav=1vrj

Horse dies while escaping from fireworks

Myrar, southwest Iceland. Seventeen horses on the farm Arnarstapi were frightened by the explosions on New Year's Eve and tried to escape. A young stallion fell into a ditch and died. 31.12.2006

Source: "Horse dies while escaping from fireworks", 3.1.2007, http://www.icelandreview.com/icelandreview/daily_news/?cat_id=16539&ew_0_a_id=254724

A part of a cat's tail had to be amputated after firework attack

Thornhill/England. A one-year-old cat was badly burned when teenage yobs tied a firework to his tail and lit it. The burn were so severe that three inches had to be removed from his tail. 6.11.2006

Source: "Firework attack left cat in agony", 10.11.2006, http://www.dewsburytoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=28&ArticleID=1870262

Gruesome attackers blew up a partridge with fireworks

Ham Hill Country Park near Yeovil, Somerset/England. A partridge was killed after fireworks were strapped to its body. A park ranger said the bird had been "blown apart". It was not known if the bird was alive or dead when it was blown up. 5.11.2006

Source:

"Bird blown up in firework attack", 9.11.2006, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/somerset/6132290.stm

"Man injured by launching firework from his bottom", 9.11.2006, http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk_news/story/0,,1943543,00.html

Sadistic louts strapped a firework to a rabbit and blew it up

Blackpool/England. A man found a dead rabbit on Fleetwood seafront near Carr Road on Bonfire Night, with fireworks tied to its body. Fireworks had been jammed between wire wrapped around the rabbit's body before the explosive was detonated. 5.11.2006

Source: "Rabbit 'blown up' in firework horror. Sadistic louts strapped a firework to a rabbit and blew it up.", 7.11.2006, http://www.blackpooltoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=62&ArticleID=1863437

Dogs killed in traffic after fleeing from areas where fireworks were exploding

Port Elizabeth area/South Africa. Eight dogs died and more than 60 were reported missing after fleeing in terror from suburban Guy Fawkes firework displays. The eight dogs that had died had been run over by cars after fleeing from areas where fireworks were exploding. 4./5.11.2006

Source: "Dogs killed in traffic as they flee noise of Guy Fawkes firecrackers", 7.11.2006, http://www.theherald.co.za/herald/news/n16_07112006.htm

Thugs strap fireworks to rabbit

Newcastle/England. A badly injured rabbit was discovered in an underpass in the East Denton area with detonated fireworks tied to its body; it died a short time later. Thugs killed him by strapping fireworks to its body and letting them off. (A force spokesman said it is thought the rabbit was wild and not a pet.)

Source: "Thugs strap fireworks to rabbit", 1.11.2006, http://www.thisisthenortheast.co.uk/display.var.998764.0.thugs_strap_fireworks_to_rabbit.php

Cat killed with fireworks

New Addington/England. A family found their 12-year-old cat, which had burns marks all over its body, outside their home, killed by a firework. 31.10.2006

Source: "Cat killed with fireworks", 3.11.2006, http://www.wimbledonguardian.co.uk/news/croydonnews/display.var.999322.0.cat_killed_with_fireworks.php

Cat scarred after firework attack

Drylaw, Edinburgh/Scotland.  A cat is recovering after an attack in which fireworks were taped to its side and set off. The cat was found by a member of public near Royston Mains Road suffering from substantial burns to its side and covered in masking tape. The young male cat had suffered first degree burns and its skin was almost falling off. 29.10.2006

Source: 

"Cat scarred after firework attack", 31.10.2006, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/edinburgh_and_east/6102248.stm

"Police hunt thugs who taped firework to cat", 31.10.2006, http://news.scotsman.com/scotland.cfm?id=1610292006

Horrific firework stunt on dead cat

Dewsbury, West Yorkshire/England. A short-haired, adult tabby cat was found at Overthorpe Park and been brought to a vet. The vet discovered it has died as a result of being shot in the stomach by an airgun. A post-mortem examination revealed a firework had been inserted and lit after the cat had died.

Source: "RSPCA speaks of horrific firework stunt on dead cat", 24.10.2006, http://www.24dash.com/communities/12102.htm

Horses frightened by a fireworks display

Abbotts Ann/England. A number of horses were so frightened by a fireworks display they bolted through 9,000 volt electric fences and were left trembling in the corner of a field. None of the horses was hurt but three fledging gouldian finches belonging to the landowner died after the parent birds took fright and refused to continue feeding their offspring. 9.9.2006

Source: "Lucky escape as horses flee fireworks fright", 15.9.2006, http://www.thisishampshire.net/display.var.922966.0.lucky_escape_as_horses_flee_fireworks_fright.php

Fireworks-spooked horse missing for days

Finleyville. Fireworks scared away a woman's horse; it broke free from a trailer at Mingo Creek Park. The animal hasn't been seen since. 12.8.2006

Source: "Fireworks-spooked horse missing for days", 15.8.2006, http://www.thepittsburghchannel.com/news/9683410/detail.html

Dog burned to death in car

St. Paul/America. Cuffa, a German shepherd, 19 months old, was killed in a fire that apparently started when youngsters threw fireworks in the car. The dog was sleeping in the car while his owner was visiting a nearby home.

Police caught two young men running away and have questioned them, but no arrests had been made yet.

Fire investigators said they believe someone threw fireworks through the cracked window and into the car. 5.7.2006

Source:

"They killed an absolutely perfect dog. Youths apparently ignite car by tossing fireworks inside", 6.7.2006, http://www.twincities.com/mld/pioneerpress/news/local/14974014.htm

"Dog burned to death in St. Paul car", 6.7.2006, http://www.kstp.com/article/stories/S17416.html?cat=1

Farmer blames fireworks for sheepdog's death

North Wales/England. A grieving farmer told how a loud wedding party firework caused his sheepdog (8) to bolt into a car's path.

A sudden and extremely powerful firework display from a local hotel made a farmer's sheepdog Bess (8) ran away for more than a mile before being struck and killed.

The loud bangs also caused his cattle to panic.

Source: "Fireworks killed Bess", 22.6.2006, http://icnorthwales.icnetwork.co.uk/news/regionalnews/tm_objectid=17273917&method=full&siteid=50142&headline=fireworks-killed-bess-name_page.html

Owner blames fireworks for dog's death

20.1.2006 http://eden.yourguide.com.au/detail.asp?class=news&subclass=local&story_id=453116&category=General%20News&m=1&y=2006

Dogs break into homes to escape terror of festive fireworks

South Africa. Fireworks over the festive season drove at least two Port Elizabeth dogs to take desparate measures – smashing their way into their owners' homes to escape the loud bangs. … 6.1.2006

http://www.theherald.co.za/herald/news/n15_06012006.htm

Fireworks kill family pet

Johannesburg/South Africa. Lady, a dog of a family in Vanderbijilpark, presumably hit by fireworks, had to be put down. One side of her head and neck was burnt, everything was raw. 2.1.2006

http://www.news24.com/News24/South_Africa/News/0,,2-7-1442_1857599,00.html

Doberman died while trying to escape fireworks on New Year's morning

Empangeni/South Africa. A Doberman (8) died of suffocation when it became tightly wedged in burglar bars while trying to escape fireworks on New Year's morning. The dog chewed its way through a wooden window frame and smashed the glass in its frantic attempts to get inside the house of its owners. The dog got her whole head, shoulders through, but her pelvic area got stuck in the bars as she tried to get through. She hung in the bars until she died. 1.1.2006

Source: "It's time to ban fireworks", 3.1.2006, http://www.news24.com/News24/South_Africa/News/0,,2-7-1442_1857990,00.html and http://www.theherald.co.za/herald/news/n15_06012006.htm

Goose killed with fireworks

Green Bay. A Canada goose found dead in a residential driveway was killed when fireworks (the police described the explosives as bottle rockets) were duct-taped to it and ignited with a fuse. 23.12.2005

Source: "GB Police investigate goose killed with fireworks", 2.2.2006, http://wfrv.com/topstories/local_story_032121440.html (with picture and video) and "Police search for suspect in animal cruelty case. Bottle rockets found strapped to dead goose", 2.2.2006, http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060202/GPG0101/602020449/1207/GPGnews

Youths strap hamster to firework

Glasgow/England. Police have condemned youths who killed a hamster by tying it to a firework and setting it off. They recorded it on a video phone. 2.12.2005 http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/4491476.stm

Fireworks blamed for foal's death

Devon. The owner of Dunscombe Stud Farm said one of his mares aborted an unborn foal because of a fireworks display and that vets, who treated the mare, thought she had bolted because of the noise. 17.11.2005

http://www.sidmouthherald.co.uk

Dog, terrified by fireworks, bit through gas pipe 

Pewsey, Wiltshire/England. A packed pub was evacuated after a two-and-a-half-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier terrified by fireworks bit through a gas pipe. Firefighters were called and they took an hour to disperse the gas. 11.11.2005

http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2005520332,00.html

Tortured kitten

High Blantyre, Lanarkshire/England. Sick brutes tortured a four-month old kitten with fireworks before throwing him on to a bonfire. A dog walker rescued him after finding him crying in agony and took him to a vet. The kitten is  scarred for life, deaf, and his pads melted by the blaze. He is slowly recovering but still traumatised.

Source:

"Rescued", 11.11.2005, http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/tm_objectid=16357326&method=full&siteid=66633&headline=rescued--name_page.html

Death of a K-9 dog

Royal Oak. Johnny (8), Royal Oak's longtime K-9 dog was killed when fireworks went off near the house he was staying at on the Fourth of July while his handler was out of town. 

The police believe that he ran toward the fireworks because they sounded like gun shots. But his body was discovered a few weeks later in the woods near Milford, a short distance from where he disappeared. Johnny had apparently been hit by a car. 7.11.2005, http://www.dailytribune.com/stories/110705/loc_k907001.shtml

Dog was so frightened by fireworks, he smashed up his owner's living room

Newhaven, East Sussex/England . A two-year-old German Shepherd was injured during the morning of Sunday 6 November, when fireworks were let off close to his home while his owner was out. He was covered in soot from ripping out the fireplace and trying to hide in it, and had a badly cut paw and a sore muzzle from ripping frantically at the furniture. 6.11.2005

Source: "Safety plea after dog wrecks room", 26.12.2005, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/southern_counties/4536928.stm

Fireworks thrown at seal during Guy Fawkes

A traumatised seal was treated by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) after fireworks were allegedly thrown at it during Guy Fawkes celebrations. The seal was returned to the ocean on the following day. 5.11.2005

http://www.int.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=14&art_id=vn20051107104626196C988830

English fireworks season deadly for horses

5.11.2005

http://www.thehorse.com/viewarticle.aspx?ID=6326

Tethered horse found dead had been frightened by fireworks

Halton, Leeds/England. A tethered horse died when fireworks caused it to bolt and become tangled up around a football post. The horse is thought to have died of asphyxiation after being panicked by children letting off fireworks in fields off Primrose Lane. It is believed a chain used to secure the horse became caught up in the football post. 4.11.2005

http://www.yorkshiretoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=55&ArticleID=1244311

Horse killed in firework attack

Pimhole, Bury, Coltsrock Stud Farm. A Horse had to be put down after suffering terrible injuries when a stud farm was set alight in a firework arson attack. Warrior, a-three-year-old stallion, was pulled out of the burning stables but suffered third degree burns over a quarter of his body and breathed in toxic smoke. Firefighters broke down the doors of the stables and led five traumatised but unhurt horses to the safety of a field. The blaze was started by a gang of youths playing with fireworks in a nearby field. 29.10.2005 http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/men/news/s/179/179861_horse_killed_in_firework_attack.html http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/tm_objectid=16316904&method=full&siteid=94762&headline=burned-to-death-by-firework-arsonists--name_page.html

Sick thugs film themselves killing family dog by firework execution in Britain

Linthwaite, near Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. The body of Emmie, a Yorkshire terrier (11), was found dead last Friday, 28.10., near the home of her owners. The dog had bolted because of firework noise the previous evening. It is not yet known if the animal was run over before a gang blew up the pet by tying fireworks to its body. 28.10.2005

http://www.upi.com/NewsTrack/view.php?StoryID=20051031-070021-7638r

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/west_yorkshire/4392998.stm

http://www.yorkshiretoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=55&ArticleID=1238072

http://www.k9magazine.com/viewarticle.php?sid=15&aid=928&vid=0&npage=

http://ichuddersfield.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100localnews/tm_objectid=16315554&method=full&siteid=50060&headline=cancer-victim-s-tears-at-pet-s-firework-killing-name_page.html

Rare eagle could be scared away by Disney fireworks

Environmentalists warned that Disneyland's nightly fireworks and laser shows at Penny's Bay could scare away white-bellied sea eagle, a rare bird species that breeds in the area. 10.8.2005

http://www.thestandard.com.hk/stdn/std/Metro/GH10Ak08.html

Dog killed by car during fireworks, owner blames City

Three days before July 4^th, during a city organized fireworks display, Kristan Frei's dog "Phoenix" got scared and ran from her back yard. Moments later, it was hit by a car. Frei says the fireworks show caught her, and several neighbors, by surprise. She wants the city to take responsibility for her dog's death. 1.7.2005

http://www.4utah.com/local_news/local_headlines/story.aspx?content_id=50D992A4-7A4C-40EB-AFEB-45A894094BDC

Fireworks scare sea lions preying on endangered fish

America. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has begun using fireworks to scare sea lions away from the fish ladders at Bonneville Dam, as they are preying on spring chinok salmon returning to the river and its tributaries to spawn. 16.4.2005

http://www.casperstartribune.net/articles/2005/04/16/news/regional/ba86971cbae585b087256fe6000b295d.txt

Fireworks injure zoo animals

Malaysia. Seven antelopes and two giraffes in Malaysia's national zoo were injured after pranksters attacked them with firecrackers. Unidentified visitors to the zoo fired homemade firecrackers at the animals, said Malaysian Zoological Society Chairman Ismail Hutson. Two African antelopes lost their tails, while the other animals suffered skin lacerations. 18.11.2004

http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/world/archives/2004/11/22/2003212110

Dog dies in agony after firework fright

Sunderland/England. A seven-month-old West Higland Terrier sustained 90 per cent burns after leaping with fright into a scalding bath when fireworks was set off outside his home. His injuries were so serious the vet have to put her to sleep.

Source: "Dog dies in agony after firework fright", 10.11.2004, http://www.sunderlandecho.com/news/Dog-dies-in-agony-after.885779.jp

Cheyenne critical after paddock explosion

Markeaton. Cheyenne, a four-year-old pony has been left in a critical condition after being injured when fireworks exploded in its paddock at Byer's Heritage Farm, an educational destination for schools and families on Friday night. Youths were letting off fireworks from woods next to the paddock holding a herd of horses, the fireworks flew into the paddock, the horses panicked an ran around the field and amid the chaos of the noise and explosions they collided with one antother. So Cheyenne sustained a serious injury to her hock joint, on her left hind leg, after being kicked by another horse. 9.11.2004

http://www.derbyeveningtelegraph.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=131665&command=displayContent&sourceNode=124566&contentPK=11275175&moduleName=InternalSearch&keyword=fireworks&formname=sidebarsearch

Fireworks set rescue dog alight

Pendle Hill, Lancashire. A volunteer search and rescue team say they are "appalled" after fireworks were aimed at one of its dogs at a Halloween gathering. The Collie's fur ignited when the firework exploded close to it and two rescuers. The dog was not seriously hurt but was left shaken. The rescuers claim that the fireworks were aimed deliberately at them and the dog after the group who threw them targeted verbal abuse at the team. 31.10.2004

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/lancashire/3971561.stm

Men charged for taping explosive to rabbit

Castro Valley, California. Strapped to a powerful explosive with a lit fuse, a bunny was tossed into Lake Don Castro. But the explosive didn't blow up, and the rabbit was pulled out of the water. Now his owner Nick Sigmon (18) and his friend Paul Collins (20) face misdemeanor charges of animal cruelty after photos of the July 13 incident surfaced on the Internet and re accused of taping an illegal M-1000 (a large firecracker equivalent to a quarter stick of dynamite). Sigmon said he adopted the bunny after almost running over her with his car, but can no longer care for her vecause he's starting college this fall, where he plans to study biology! 29.7.2004

http://www.usatoday.com/news/offbeat/2004-07-29-lucky-bunny_x.htm

Horse hurt by fireworks slowly improving

Last week a man stopped in front of the Carr's farm and threw a firecracker, probably an M-80, into a horse's  pasture. The curious horse - called "Stone" - picked it up. Just then, the firecracker blew up in his mouth. It knocked out at least one tooth. 9.7.2004

http://www.komotv.com/stories/32125.htm

Teens sought after puppies killed by fireworks. Attacks also injured another dog in Oklahoma town

Tulsa, Oklahoma. Six puppies were killed, apparently by fireworks placed in their mouths, shortly after teenage boys were seen carrying Roman candles in a north Tulsa neighborhood.

An older dog, a 4½-month-old black Labrador mix, suffered burns on her muzzle and hindquarters from apparently being used as a moving target for fireworks. 8.7.2004

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5331549/

Firework attack leaves cat in agony

Whinmoor/England. Police are hunting cruel thugs after a firework was deliberately thrown at a five-year-old cat. The firework set the cat's tail on fire; that meant three-quarters of her tail had to be amputated. The cat was attacked sometime between 8 p.m. on November 6 and 1.30 p.m. on November 7, 2003.

http://www.yorkshiretoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=1084&ArticleID=688807

Firework menace sparks crisis at lost dogs' home

Terrified dogs who are fleeing fireworks and getting lost are ending up at Manchester Dogs' Home.

Cynthia Marks, administration manager at the home, said: "Dogs are terrified of fireworks and when they arrive they are traumatised and exhausted. They are so scared they just run and run and can't find their way back. These dogs are being collected from police stations within a 50-mile radius of Manchester… Some of the fireworks are so loud they're like bombs. I think they should be banned for all our sakes." 8.11.2003

http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/news/stories/Detail_LinkStory=72373.html

Horror as wild gets wilder
The animal rescuer David Hall, founder of Hogarth's Hedgehog Rescue, in Hinckley, said: "In the last 10 years fireworks have become more and more of a menace to wildlife. But this year has stood out as the worst. People are warned to check bonfires to make sure sleepy hedgehogs haven't bedded down there, but they don't realise that's often where the hedgehogs go to have their babies late in the year. And it's not just orphaned hedgehogs we're called to care for. We have been brought a lot of birds and foxes. The noise of fireworks, which are now let off all year round, is traumatising to wildlife." He said some are in such an awful state of shock they have to be put down. 6.11.2003 http://iccoventry.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0125nwarksnews/page.cfm?objectid=13596269&method=full&siteid=50003

Calls for stricter laws

Wishaw, North Lanarkshire. An 11-month-old dog died after a firework was tied to its tail and lit. The boxer was rushed to a vet shortly after the incident, but died of severe burns an shock. The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) was alerted after a heighbour heard children letting off fireworks and moments later heard the dog's cries. The dog had escaped from its owner’s garden. 5.11.2003

http://www.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30100-12917842,00.html

Swans die after fireworks incident
The owner of a Nuneaton rescue centre for wildlife has called for loud fireworks to be banned, after two swans it was caring for died of fright.
The death toll follows last year's loss of two ducks, a parakeet and a rabbit at the centre. 4.11.2003 http://iccoventry.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0125nwarksnews/page.cfm?objectid=13589081&method=full&siteid=50003

Childrens' firework kills puppy

Wishaw. A boxer puppy has died after a gang of children, some as young as 12, threw a lit firework at it. A neighbour found the puppy lying with severe burns. The puppy was taken to a nearby vet, but sadly it died from a combination of severe burns and shock. 4.11.2003

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/3241361.stm

Fire attack cat may lose a leg
Tyson the cat is likely to have a leg amputated after callous louts tied a firework to his tail left him to burn on a Coventry street. The brave cat has not responded well enough to treatment since he was brought in to the RSPCA centre in Coundon, and now faces losing his rear left leg. 31.10.2003
http://iccoventry.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100localnews/page.cfm?objectid=13575811&method=full&siteid=50003

Puppy joy for disabled woman
Christine Reid's border terrier had to be put down a week after the attack by a gang of yobs in March. She was walking him near her home in Appleby Gardens, Howdon, in Wallsend when teenagers threw a firework at the animal. It exploded near eight-year-old terrier who bolted off and may have been hit by a vehicle. He started having fits and had brain damage. 7.8.2003
http://icnewcastle.icnetwork.co.uk/eveningchronicle/eveningchronicle/news/page.cfm?objectid=13265275&method=full&siteid=50081

2000 Chickens Fell Victims of New Year Fireworks

Guangzhou. About 2,000 of chickens dies of fear or were crushed to death by other scared birds on the New Year's eve in southern China. The chickens were panic-struck when six teenagers started letting off fireworks at the New Year celebration. 4.2.2003

http://english.pravda.ru/fun/2003/02/04/42977.html

Fireworks sent my dog mad
Rowland Howkins still bears the scars after being attacked by his own German Shepherd dog in a city park when it was startled by children letting off fireworks. 18.2.2003
http://iccoventry.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100localnews/page.cfm?objectid=12651384&method=full&siteid=50003

Pet dog jumps from first floor
The miniature Doberman Pinscher leapt out of a bedroom window and ran off after a 15ft fall. Owner Kim Smith, from Wallsend, says: "There were loads of fireworks being set off and he is terrified of them. I think he just panicked." 21.11.2002
http://icnewcastle.icnetwork.co.uk/ic/eveningchronicle/page.cfm?objectid=12392872&method=full&siteid=50081

Firework strapped to back of kitten
Everton/England. A firework was strapped to the back of a defenceless kitten before being ignited in a vicious Bonfire Night attack. The 12-week-old ginger kitten 'Toffee' was found by worried owners with the firework still strapped to his back. They took the badly burned cat to the PDSA's PetAid Hospital. 

Source: 

"Firework taped to kitten's back", 5.11.2002, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/2405547.stm

"Firework strapped to back of kitten, 6.11.2002, http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100regionalnews/page.cfm?objectid=12341410&method=full&siteid=50061

Fireworks blamed for tragic stampede

Yorkshire/England. About 12 horses took fright and broke out of their field after it's thought that fireworks were set off in the area. The incident occurred almost two weeks before the official  Bonfire Night. One of the horses (5) suffered serious chest injuries after colliding with a car, an other (who's in his 20s) will probably lose one eye.

Source: "Fireworks blamed for tragic stampede", 4.11.2002, http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/article.php?aid=35208&cid=397 or http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/article.php?aid=35208

Dog killed by exploding firework

Greater Manchester/England. A dog has been killed after a firework exploded in a street. Police believe the incident in Rochdale happened when a gang of youths started throwing the fireworks. On Friday it was not clear whether the firework had been thrown directly at the dog, or it hat picked one up in its mouth before it exploded. 

Source: "Dog killed by exploding firework", 11.10.2002, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/2318975.stm

Fireworks blamed for horses' death

Damerham, Hampshire/England. Two horses, the eight-year-old Ross and nine-year-old Max were found dead in their field. It appears that they were frightened by the loud bangs of fireworks let off at a private opera evening held near their field. Panicked by the noise, it is believed they collided head on with each other and died within a matter of minutes.

Source: "Fireworks blamed for horses' death", 10.9.2002, http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/article.php?aid=35548&cid=397 or http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/article.php?aid=35548

Boys held for cracker in dog's mouth

Port Shepstone/South Africa. Two teenagers (18 and 15) are to appear in the Port Shepstone Magistrate's Court after they allegedly set off a firecracker in a dog's mouth. They are charged with contravening the Animals Protection Act. Graham Edwards, manager of the Lower South Coast SPCA, said the cracker had caused splitting of the dog's cheeks, gums and the roof of its mouth. 

Source: "Boys held for cracker in dog's mouth", 3.1.2002, http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=ct20020103202408416F620569

Two teens arrested in fireworks attack on kitten

Citrus Heights. Two teenagers have been arrested for trying to blow up a 7-month-old kitten on July 3.

The cat's owners discovered the wouded kitten in bushes outside their home. A significant wound was found on the right side of his neck. Doctors also found M-80 fireworks still strapped with electrical tape to the left side of the cat's neck. The. M-80 that detonated left deep, penetrating wounds. 20.11.2001

http://www.sacbee.com/content/news/story/1198770p-1266300c.html

Fireworks leads to death of horse

Uckfield/England. A woman, of Sussex Horse Rescue in Hempstead Lane, discovered one of the centre's mares lying in a ditch with a badly broken leg November 3. It is thought she had fallen in the night before after being startled by fireworks set off in the area. A number of empty firework cartridge were found in the field where she fell. The vet had to shoot her because she was so badly injured. Her five-months-old foal was with the mare when she died. The foal is just traumatised.

Source: "Fireworks leads to death of horse", 9.11.2001, http://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=511&ArticleID=270657

Cat killed in firework attack

Oldham, Greater Manchester/England. A cat has become the first fatality of the fireworks season after suffering severe burns and a deep wound in a suspected firework attack. It is believed a firework had been attached to the tail of four-year-old tabby Jay. It later had to be put down because its injuries were so serious. 

Source: "Cat killed in firework attack", 3.11.2001, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/1635996.stm

Guide dogs at risk on firework night

A warning has been issued by the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association to alert the public to the dangers of frightening guide dogs on firework night. It says: "Numerous guide dogs are so frightened by the noise they have to be sedated, which means they are unable to work for days at a time. Worse, some are even forced into early retirement because they become so nervous of any loud bangs or noises." 

Source: "Guide dogs at risk on firework night", 23.10.2001, http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/article.php?aid=38622&cid=397

Fatal horse fire caused by firework

Grosse Point, Mich./America. On a party, at around 4a.m., one of the guests began to joke around about throwing a firework into a nearby horse barn.

Then the guest (23) really threw a mortar toward the 91-year-old Grosse Pointe Hunt Club barn. The barn burned to the ground. Five horses could be saved, but 19 horses died. Most were incinerated in the fire, but one had to be put down the next day after he tried to jump through one of the barn's small windows and sustained severe chest trauma.

The man was tried for one count of arson and 19 counts of willfully and maliciously killing and/or torturing an animal. July 2001

Source: "Mich. V. Fennell : Young man tried for fatal horse fire", 18.6.2003, http://www.courttv.com/trials/taped/fennell/background.html

Bomb-sniffing dog flees fireworks

South-west Sydney suburb of Hinchinbrook. An Australian police dog trained to sniff out explosives has fled in terror at the sound of Sydney's spectacular New Year fireworks.

Jed, a five-year-old golden Labrador, broke out of the yard where he was kept as the fireworks exploded and hasn't come home.

It cost about A$10,000 (US$5,500) to train Jed for his bomb-sniffing role.

Source: "Bomb-sniffing dog flees fireworks", 2.1.2001,mhttp://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/1097707.stm

Dog rescued from bonfire

Pembrokeshire. A dog which was left barricaded in an unlit bonfire has had a lucky escape. The frightened animal was rescued by a group of school children. The children tunnelled their way inside the bonfire, due to have been part of a fireworks display on a housing estate in Monkton, after hearing his barks. 

Source: "Dog rescued from bonfire", 4.11.2000, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/1006862.stm

Fireworks put birds dead in the water

Hawaii. A couple of days after New Year’s fireworks displays, hundreds of birds were found dead on Kailua Beach. Finding so many dead birds in and near the ocean is so unusual that biologists believe the deaths were the result of the excessive amount of holiday fireworks ignited this year. As to why the birds died, bird experts can only guess. One speculation is that the noise of the blasts frightened the birds out to sea where they got tired, lost or confused, and then drowned. Another possibility is that the smoke drove them from their nighttime roosts and they died either from smoke inhalation or drowning when they became exhausted over the water.

Source: "Fireworks put birds dead in the water", 17.1.2000, http://www.susanscott.net/OceanWatch2000/jan17-00.html

Traumatised dogs given shelter at SPCA

South Africa. At least two dogs died and more than 15o were listed as runaways during the weekend's noisy celebrations of Diwali and Guy Fawkes, the Durban and Kloof branches of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to animals said on Sunday. 

Source: "Traumatised dosgs given shelter at SPCA", 7.11.1999, http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=ct1999110722522360S12065

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