From: The New Zealand Veterinary Association.
Guy Fawkes is coming up (5 November).
Before you purchase fireworks, think about the animals.
The NZVA supports a ban on the private sale of fireworks. To reduce the impact of fireworks on animals the NZVA encourages people to view a public fireworks display rather than purchasing fireworks for private use. We also encourage the public to continue to speak up on this issue and speak loudly for those who cannot speak themselves - animals.
Each year veterinary clinics see injured and traumatised animals as a result of fireworks. Some of the injuries are horrific. Fireworks can also cause severe anxiety and stress in animals and this psychological harm is a significant component of their compromised welfare.
While the NZVA understands that some people enjoy having private displays, it is the role of veterinarians to advocate for what is in the best interests of animals in New Zealand. The NZVA believes that a ban on private fireworks would improve welfare of those animals that find fireworks stressful.
Our Animal Welfare Act, is world-leading by virtue of acknowledging that animals are sentient (ie. the animal is not only capable of feeling pain and distress but also can have positive and negative psychological experiences). The NZVA believes that as a society we all have a responsibility to ensure that both the physical and mental harm to animals, including the harm caused by fireworks, is minimised.
The NZVA’s top tips to protect animals during Guy Fawkes are:
1. Find out where and when firework displays will take place near you and take the following steps to minimise stress to your animal during these times.
2. Keep pets indoors, preferably with curtains drawn and windows closed to reduce noise.
3. Turn on the radio or television to create a familiar sound which can be comforting.
4. Remove anything in the room where you are keeping your pet that could injure them.
5. Provide blankets and pillows for your pet to hide under if they wish.
6. Take your pet to an alternative location for the night if necessary.
7. Owners should remain calm and provide quiet reassurance to their pet.
8. If your pet has previously exhibited fear-related behaviour contact a veterinary clinic for additional coping advice strategies.
Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑
Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.
We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
Want to read more? The Press has you covered!
-
52.8% Human-centred experience and communication
-
14.7% Critical thinking
-
29.6% Resilience and adaptability
-
2.9% Other - I will share below!
Brain Teaser of the Day 🧠✨ Can You Solve It? 🤔💬
Make a hearty dish. Take just half a minute. Add four parts of kestrel. Then just add one. What have you made?
(Trev from Silverdale kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Trev!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed? No worries! Simply head here and click once on the Following button.
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
Loading…
