Council issues safety message to pet owners for Strand show

Date: Friday, 25th September 2009

Townsville City Council is encouraging residents to make sure their homes and pets are safe and secure during this Saturday’s Defence Force Air Display and Fireworks Spectacular.

While the demonstration is expected to thrill up to 80,000 people on The Strand, it will also produce bursts of noise that could upset animals.

Health and Community Safety Committee chairman Cr Dale Last encouraged pet owners to leave their animals at home and keep them safe.

“Dogs will be allowed down on The Strand but loud noise isn’t fun for animals, so we’d encourage people to leave them at home,” Cr Last said.

“If possible, at times like this, the recommended advice is to keep your pets inside and provide a safe ‘escape’ place. This might be under a bed or in a crate, but something that they’re familiar with before the day.

“It can also help to close the curtains, switch off the lights and turn on some music or the television.

“For dogs, it’s best if they’re exercised during the day.

“Other animals, whether large or small, should be contained during such an event.”

At the same time, Cr Last urged residents to ensure their homes were secure.

“With so many people drawn to the event, this is the ideal time for unattended homes to be targeted by thieves,” he said.

“We don’t want our revellers to come home to disappointment. Don’t let it happen; make sure your home is safe and secure as well.”