Halloween horror as GSPCA warn animals being attacked
City cats, dogs, kittens and puppies are under attack this Halloween from fireworks thrown by delinquent children, it has been claimed.
The Galway Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, GSPCA, said Galway resembles a ‘war-zone’ in the lead up to Halloween with noise from fireworks scaring family pets.
The organisation has received reports of children and teenagers, “throwing bangers into people’s back gardens to frighten pets or throwing them at animals in the street”.
The GSPCA has advised pet owners to keep animals indoors in order to keep them safe.
“Do not let your dog outside unless you’re with it, even in your garden,” the organisation warned.
“We advise if your pet is getting stressed with the noise of bangers speak to your vet who can recommend medicine to keep it calm. Music is great also, so close the curtains and put music on. Most cats like classical music. Keep your dog away from the door on Halloween night as costumes and screaming kids could frighten it.
“We ask the people in charge of bonfires to make sure no animals including farm animals are nearby.”
The GSPCA said cruelty to animals schould be reported to Galway Gardaí.
Meanwhile, almost 30 puppies which had their tails cruelly ‘docked’ were seized by inspectors from the ISPCA during the Ballinasloe Fair.
The young animals were seized by inspectors during the nine-day festival. A total of 28 puppies which had their tails docked – now illegal unless carried out by a vet – were taken away, as well as six donkeys and two colt foals.
Read more in this week’s Galway City tribune