Keep your animal friends safe this holiday season

With the festive season upon us, fireworks can be a thrilling finale to many Christmas and New Year celebrations, but not so much for the furry members of our community.

Unfortunately, many family pets, particularly dogs, don’t enjoy the light and sound show the same way we do. The loud noises made by fireworks often spook animals, who may be left unattended or in unsecured backyards.

Dogs have an acute sense of hearing, which intensifies the loud boom sounds of fireworks, causing them to panic and be frightened.

Missing a pet during the festive season can quickly put a damper on celebrations, so please double check the security of your yard and make sure your pet doesn’t go missing – and remember to never take them along to events where there will be fireworks.

It’s also a time of year when thunderstorms occur more frequently, which can also frighten dogs, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your pets and keep them secure when the storm clouds gather.

To avoid animals becoming fearful during times of loud noises like thunderstorms and fireworks, make sure you provide access to a safe place where your pet may feel more at ease. Just as important to remember is to never scold or punish your pet for exhibiting unusual behaviour during times of stress.

Many of the dogs collected by Council’s Local Laws officers last year were, fortunately, registered and microchipped.

When an animal is found wandering the streets, Council officers aim to reunite animals with their owners. If an animal is handed into a local veterinary clinic, the clinic is required to notify Council. The process of reuniting an animal can be much quicker when contact details are correct on the microchip database and animals are wearing Council registration tags.

It is also important that you ensure your pets are well cared for if you are planning on going away this holiday season. Animals can become distressed during your absence and can often escape or cause noise disruption to neighbours.  

It is recommended owners have someone stay with their animals or have them cared for in a boarding kennel if planning on being away. Also, be sure to look after your animals during days of extreme heat by keeping them well hydrated, cool and not left in hot cars.

For information about registering and microchipping your pet, please contact Council’s Local Laws team on 1300 88 22 33 or visit our