Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 11) — While the holiday season is an exciting time for many of us, the fireworks and loud noises from firecrackers can be scary for some of our pets.
According to Cha Masangkay, owner of a dog and two cats and a volunteer at Saving Paws PH, panting or shortness of breath in dogs, or ears pointing downward, are signs they are stressed.
She said cats express fear differently, which could be noticed in their pupils.
“‘Pag [‘yong pupils] very sharp, para siyang ‘one’ o exclamation point, medyo anxious and worried sila, tapos ‘yong tail nila usually ‘pag nakataas na naka-curl, medyo ready siya for attack o medyo anxious siya. Minsan ‘pag lumalabas o nagpo-protrude ‘yung nails nila, ‘yun na ‘yung medyo ready for attack na ‘yung cat,” Masangkay explained.
[Translation: If the pupils are very sharp, like the number one or an exclamation point, they are anxious and worried, and when their tails are pointed upward in a curl, they’re ready to attack or they could be anxious. Sometimes, when their nails start protruding, that’s when cats are ready to attack.]
She added that pet owners should make the environment comfortable for their pets and keep them away from areas where noise from fireworks may be heard.
Geoffrey Baldua, meanwhile, advises fellow pet owners to reassure their pets during a fireworks display or when firecrackers are set off.
“Huwag kayong matakot, kasi ‘pag natakot kayo, matatakot din ‘yong pet niyo. Kailangan reassured sila na isa sa inyo naka-control sa situation,” he said.
[Translation: Don’t be afraid, because if they feel your fear, they will also get scared. Reassure them that one of you is in control of the situation.]
