Hunt continues for lost dogs terrified by fireworks
While party goers around the country were enjoying New Year’s Eve fireworks, thousands of terrified pooches were scrambling for cover.
Hundreds of runaway dogs arrived at shelters around the country this morning after being spooked by the noise and running away from home while their owners rang in the New Year.
Jodie Addamo from the Lost Dogs’ Home said it was a traumatic experience for many of our four-legged friends.
“These dogs suffer immense anxiety, they’re distressed, they’re irrational, they can’t be calmed and they’re absolutely terrified,” she said.
The North Melbourne shelter took in more than 120 new arrivals today, mostly runaways spooked by fireworks.
Sadly, she said several were killed after running out in front of cars during their panic.
Police said illicit fireworks bought in states where laws are more relaxed were hard to stamp out of the community.
Online communities like Lost Dogs of Adelaide have also seen a surge of users today, with owners desperate to find their pets.
While collecting their frightened pet from a refuge on New Year’s Day has become an annual tradition for some owners, experts say it is safest to make sure all pets are properly secured.
