More than 30 displays were declared in the United States on Tuesday, November 5, alone, and the nights around the main day were also filled with fireworks.

GSPCA Director Steve Byrne said this year the shelter was seeing more private fireworks displays over a longer period of time than in previous years.

She launched a pyrotechnic survey to assess the public’s feelings and reactions to these events, “good or bad”.

“At the GSPCA we have struggled to help a number of animals and even at the shelter we have seen those in our care become upset and distressed. »

Fireworks can cause fear and distress in many animals due to the sudden, loud noises. RSPCA figures show that almost half of all dogs experience fear when they hear fireworks.

Animals can also be injured when they try to run or hide from noise.

“This year we have been involved and heard of a number of cases which have led to the loss and distress of animals, owners and the public due to the number of events. So we have launched a survey to gauge islanders’ feelings,” Mr Byrne said. .

“Thankfully, so far we have not seen any wildlife injured and requiring rescue and treatment due to the fireworks.

“At each fireworks season that we are aware of, we promote safety messages to help prevent stress to owners’ pets and avoid harm to wildlife.

It is nice to see that thankfully we are not seeing as many incidents as in the past.

Guernsey has strict rules regarding fireworks. They can only be sold in approved premises in the week preceding November 5 to people aged over 20.

“There are now only two fireworks retailers, only distributing them a few days before November 5 and the state’s fireworks registration and alert page has certainly helped islanders to know in advance when events are taking place and where they are taking place,” Mr Byrne said.

But while that helps pet owners prepare, it doesn’t for wildlife.

Mr Byrne said the shelter was urging islanders to attend organized events and use quiet fireworks to reduce the stress and upset it can cause to animals and people.

The new survey asks what people think about local fireworks laws, whether pets are in distress during shows, whether they have seen wild animals suffering and whether all fireworks should be limited or prohibited.

n The survey can be completed at www.surveymonkey.com/r/LH7678N.

n There is a private exhibition in Castel this evening, then four exhibitions on Friday evening. Three of them are private, but the fourth is the public exhibition of the La Houguette school, which takes place from 5 p.m.