18-week-old puppy dies of heart attack triggered by loud fireworks, grieving owner urges people to 'think of animals'
An 18-week-old puppy has died from a heart attack after being startled from the loud noises caused by fireworks.
The young terrier, named Molly, was only 18 weeks old when she was frightened by loud bangs in the Wombwell and lower Darfield area in South Yorkshire before suffering a heart attack that resulted in her untimely and tragic death, reports Metro.
Susan Paterson shared the tragic news in a public Facegroup group called Wombwell Wise, urging people to "please think of the animals."
Paterson urged the public to follow the FAB Anti random Firework page, where they could sign a petition calling for a full review of legislation around fireworks so that animals could be protected from injury and distress.
"They don’t only suffer psychologically, but also physically as many attempt to run away from, or hide from, the bangs," wrote Julie Doorne, who began the petition. "With extreme noise levels and people being able to let off fireworks any time of year, it’s difficult for those who care for animals to be able to put measures in place to protect their animals."
According to the petition, around 40% of all dogs are fearful of sudden, loud noises like those that come from fireworks.
The petition claims fireworks affect dogs, cats, other pets, livestock, as well as wildlife. The RSPCA has repeatedly published reports of horses harming themselves by crashing into stable doors and fences after being unable to understand "what is causing the loud bangs and bright flashes."
In order to keep your pets feeling safe and calm during fireworks, the RSPCA website recommends walking them during daylight when fireworks are least likely to be set off. In order to mask or muffle the sound of firecrackers, owners are advised to close windows and curtains, put on music or the TV, as well as create some quiet spaces where your dog can feel more in control.
When it comes to cats, the RSPCA recommends microchipping in case they run away from the bursting of fireworks.
Furthermore, smaller animals must have their cages partly covered with blankets in order to muffle the sound.
