You Could Face Five Years In Jail For Setting Off Fireworks That Cause 'Suffering' To Animals

You could face a hefty fine if you set off fireworks that cause 'unnecessary animal suffering', it has been revealed.

It's Bonfire Night tomorrow, and while lots of us will be heading out to watch a no doubt impressive fireworks display, animal charities have urged people to think of their pets' safety this year.

If people are found to be putting animals in harm's way as a result of their celebrations, they could be ordered to pay thousands of pounds and could even be sent to prison.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has advised pet owners to make sure their animals are safe and secure, and away from any loud noises.

According to the law, it is illegal to cause 'unnecessary suffering to an animal'.

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Under the Animal Welfare Act of 2006, those found to have done so can be hit with an unlimited fine and/or sentenced to five years in prison.

And law does not just affect pet owners, but also those who caused harm having 'known' or had 'ought to have known' that their actions would do so.

Speaking to Metro, a spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) confirmed the use of fireworks could be seen as causing unnecessary suffering to animals.

They said: "Users of fireworks need to use them responsibly and be aware of animals close by, and those found guilty of causing animals unnecessary suffering can face up to five years' imprisonment."

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But there are things that we can do to make sure out furry friends are a little more comfortable this year.

Last year, Caitlin Miller from South Shields, Tyne and Wear, took to Facebook to explain how people can make their own stress band for their pets by just using an old sock and a pair of scissors.

All you need to do is cut the end off each sock and place it around your dog's head and it'll comfort them, almost as if they're being cuddled.

Of course, make sure the sock is adult sized so it doesn't cause them any discomfort.

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The student said the method is tried and tested, having instantly relaxed Jack Russell Cookie and Pomchi Ruby.

Caitlin posted pictures of the pair wearing the makeshift comforters on Facebook, writing: "For all those whose dogs are scared of fireworks.

"Instead of buying anti stress bands or anything else off of the internet, just cut the two ends off a sock and put it on their head ensuring it's not too tight, but comfortable.

"It gives them a sensation of being cuddled and relaxes them. We used them last year and as firework season is back we're using them again and thought I'd share with my friends."

Topics: UK News, crime, Cats, Dogs, Prison

Dominic Smithers

Dominic graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in French and History. Like you, Dom has often questioned how much use a second language has been. Well, after stints working at the Manchester Evening News, the Accrington Observer and the Macclesfield Express, along with never setting foot in France, he realised the answer is surprisingly little. But I guess, c'est la vie. Contact us at [email protected]

@SmithersDom