REMEMBER, remember the fifth of November - and please also remember your pets!

If you're planning to celebrate this year's display of fire, flashes and bangs, then the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals would like you to take a few moments out to think about the welfare of your furry companions.

Dealing with all kinds of small animal injuries and illnesses the PDSA clinic based at Hawes Side Lane, Blackpool, is now preparing for one of the busiest times of the year.

The charity clinic treats many horror stories from the annual event, a great percentage of them being victims of cruelty as well as cases of minor burns and trauma.

Veterinary Surgeon at the clinic Matthew Maloney said: "My advice to all pet owners, including those with caged animals, is to keep them indoors if possible.

"Dog owners that work should take the animal for a walk in the morning rather than the evening when people are setting off fireworks and if your dog or cat is very nervous, I would advise a trip to your vet for some mild tranquillisers to last until the event is over."

The din of loud bangs and crackling bonfires are all familiar sights and sounds to us on Guy Fawkes night and while this may be great fun for both adults and children our domestic friends don't share our enthusiasm.

Mr Maloney added: "Already this year I've had to deal with some young children who were setting off bangers outside the clinic where sick animals are recovering from surgery.

"I cannot believe the thoughtlessness of this act and I urge parents to teach their children not only the danger of fireworks but the effect they have on animals."

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