Dog dies trying to escape Guy Fawkes fireworks as SPCA calls rise 59% - IOL

Delft dog Max had to be euthanised after suffering serious injuries while trying to escape the sound of fireworks. The picture has been blurred to hide the graphic depiction of the injuries.

The Cape of Good Hope Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has reported a 59% increase in calls logged for Guy Fawkes. 

Guy Fawkes Day took place on Thursday, November 5. 

In South Africa, the day is traditionally marked by the setting off of fireworks. However, in recent years, many municipalities (including the City of Cape Town and Durban) have increasingly restricted or banned public fireworks displays to protect pets, wildlife, and community safety. 

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA Communications Manager, Belinda Abraham, said a dog in Delft was euthanised after being injured trying to escape the fireworks. 

The dog, Max, was inside his home when fireworks went off just after dark. His family locked the security gate to keep him safe, but in his panic, he tried squeezing between the bars and was impaled. 

An SPCA collection officer rushed Max to a private veterinary practice for emergency treatment, with an escort from the City’s Law Enforcement Animal Control Auxiliary Unit. A scan showed severe injuries to his intestines and bladder and he had to be euthanised.

Max was among at least five animals that needed urgent veterinary care during the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s Guy Fawkes response. Eight inspectors worked through the night, and the inspectorate logged 81 calls, up from 51 last year.

“Max should still be alive today. Our thoughts are with his family. Every bang carries into the homes around you. Please think of the animals inside and celebrate without fireworks,” Abraham said. 

The SPCA urges residents to look out for animals that may still be frightened, injured, or displaced after Guy Fawkes. 

To report an animal in distress, call the SPCA Inspectorate on 021 700 4158 or 021 700 4159. After hours, call 083 326 1604. 

The City of Cape Town also recorded 243 incidents related to the discharge of fireworks. 

Incidents of sporadic stone throwing and anti-social behaviour were also received.  

Fireworks incidents reported to the Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC)  included areas such as Saxonsea in Atlantis, Lentegeur, Hanover Park, Surrey Estate, Manenberg, Mamre, Bonteheuwel, and The Hague.

The City said the numbers could be higher as there was a possibility that not all incidents were reported to the PECC. 

Law Enforcement spokesperson Wayne Dyason urged communities to assist officers in reporting the discharging of fireworks. 

“The unnecessary disruption, noise nuisance, violence and criminal elements that take advantage of disorderly situations have once again proved that there should be no place for Guy Fawkes in our communities. It has once again traumatised residents in affected communities and has put an extra burden on enforcement resources. The message should be clear: no more Guy Fawkes. We hope that communities will assist officers in reporting the discharge of fireworks and that we will see a decline in incidents next year. We all have a duty to act responsibly,” Dyason said.