Animals and Fireworks

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A survey of Scottish vets showed that in 2001 up to 10'000 pets and farm animals were killed or injured: one have been killed by deliberate firework attacks or injured by accidents, other suffered stress and anxiety. The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has called for a change in laws regulating the sale of fireworks.

        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.

    

 

"Fireworks and pets" (pdf-Datei) can be downloaded by The Blue Cross - Britain's Pet Charity under http://www.thebluecross.org.uk/content/animal_advice/4_3_general.htm.

 

 

On Monday, the National Campaign for Fireworks Safety will reveal the results of a survey which say: "Fireworks are now out of control all over the UK and at all times at the year." Officially, fireworks were supposed to be on sale only from October 15 to November 8, but only the months of March, April and June had no reports of fireworks attacks. There were 95 incidents of fireworks being used as a weapon and the victims included three cats and six dogs, including a guide dog, two horses and a lamb. And there was one case of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier so afraid of the noise of fireworks that it seriously injured itself in terror. 11.10.2002 http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/news/stories/Detail_LinkStory=21636.htm  

 

Safewings Bird Sanctuary: <<We are calling for ALL animal welfare groups to back the control of fireworks. Ban them from public purchase and support only limited organised Events...
The majority of animal welfare organisations, stables, kennels, catteries, aviculturists, farmers and many residents want to see a ban on fireworks and displays only to be run under a license.
Fireworks are nothing less than explosives and their use and misuse is on the increase. Animal lovers cannot sedate and keep their pets in indefinitely over many months.
We raised this issue about animals and fireworks in the consultation for the Governments New Animal Welfare Bill, which is supposed to give a better quality of life to all pets. Animal Welfare Minister Elliott Morley Wrote to me stating that "Firework misuse and air gun attacks are NOT animal welfare issues. It's a matter to be taken up with the DTI"...>> (read more under http://www.uksafari.com/safewings/fireworks.htm

 

New Firework Law Will Reduce Suffering For Animals: A coalition of the UK's leading animal welfare groups is rejoicing as today a Fireworks Bill passed successfully though Parliament and became law. This means pets, assistance dogs and wildlife will be protected from the year-round distress they suffer due to fireworks. Under the new law, fireworks will be controlled by restricting their sale and use to certain times of the day and year and public firework displays will be licensed... Thousands of animals are sedated, bolt from firework noise and are victims of traffic accidents every year. For example, a number of guide dogs have to be retired or re-trained due to the trauma caused by fireworks. Last year, six guide dogs had to be retired at a cost of £35,000 each. Many others were retrained. Besides the financial cost, many guide dog owners are left without the independence and mobility that their guide dogs provide. 17.9.2003 http://www.dogstrust.org.uk/main.asp?structureid=366 

 

 

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HORRIBLE STORIES ABOUT FIREWORKS AND ANIMALS

 

 

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

 

 

 

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

"Swan put down after 'barbaric' incident", 24.9.2008, http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2008/0924/1222205368699.html

"Youth admits to throwing firework at swan", 6.10.2008, http://www.herald.ie/national-news/city-news/youth-admits-to-throwing-firework-at-swan-1490916.html: A youth admitted he thres the firework that destroyed a swan bill on Dublin's Stardust Memorial Park in Coolock two weeks ago into the pond close to the swan and did not feed him; the bird had to be put down. It was originally thought a firework had been deliberately inserted into bread fed to the bird in the park. 

 

 

 

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 6th, 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

"Hawkins Co. investigating kitten killed by fireworks", 11.7.2007, http://www.wmcstations.com/Global/story.asp?S=6775876: Hawkins County investigators are interviewing three men in the death of a kitten killed by fireworks July 8.

"Teenagers charged in death of kitten", 17.7.2007, http://www.timesnews.net/article.php?id=9002090; "Charges filed in fireworks death of kitten", 18.7.2007, http://www.wbir.com/news/regional/story.aspx?storyid=47254, "Teens cited in fireworks killing of kitten, 18.7.2007, http://www.newschannel5.com/Global/story.asp?S=6806341: Two teens (17) have had aggravated animal cruelty charges filed against them by the Hawkins County Sheriffs Department. The charges are a result of the fireworks killing of a kitten. The suspects were cited into juvenile court.

 

 

 

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

"Fleetwood rabbit death horror – reward", 9.11.2006, http://www.blackpooltoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=62&ArticleID=1869069: A dead rabbit was found November 5 on Fleetwood seafront with fireworks strapped to its body. A reward has been offered to help bring yobs who blew up a rabbit with fireworks to justice.  

 

 

 

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

"Rocket yobs blow up cat", 3.11.2006, http://iccroydon.icnetwork.co.uk/news/headlines/tm_headline=rocket-yobs-blow-up-cat&method=full&objectid=18039706&siteid=53340-name_page.html: Twisted yobs have blown up a cat with a firework in an attack police have described as the most sickening they have ever seen.

 

 

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

Man has been found guilty of animal cruelty. Scotland. A man (20) who helped tie a hamster to a firework before the fuse was lit and it was fired into the air in the Possilpark area of Glasgow, has been found guilty of animal cruelty. He was among a group of friends who filmed themselves torturing the animal on mobile phones in 2005. Source: "Man tied hamster to lit firework", 31.1.2008, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/glasgow_and_west/7220753.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

Video: "Horse killed in firework attack" - WARRIOR's injuries were so bad after a suspected firework attack that he had to be put down after two days. View Windows video at http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/men/video/popup/229.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

"Man arrested after dog blown up", 1.11.2005, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/west_yorkshire/4395154.stm

"Blair insists firework ban 'step", 3.11.2005, http://www.yorkshiretoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=55&ArticleID=1241670: Outlawing the public sale of fireworks in the wake of the death of a pet dog in Huddersfield would be a 'step too far', Tony Blair said. Mr Blair said it was important to measure the effectiveness of new laws aimed at curbing firework abuse before taking further action.

 

 

 

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 4th, 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