Think of the dogs…

Fireworks can seem like fun and games to many, but the distress they can cause to animals shouldn’t be overlooked.

In a post on Facebook, West Cork Animal Welfare Group wrote: “Unfortunately it’s that time of year again and a timely warning to keep your pets indoors after dark or on a lead when out as its firework season.”

The post was prompted after a dog went missing following fireworks let off near Rosscarbery Town on Tuesday night.

Thankfully, she has since been reunited with her owners.

In the same vein, Cork gardaí have warned the public against the use of fireworks, citing the dangers they can pose. Anglesea Street Chief Superintendent Tom Myers said that there had been two incidents this week, in Togher and Knocknaheeny, where fireworks had been thrown through letterboxes.

It is illegal in Ireland to either use or sell fireworks, and punishments can be as severe as €10,000 fines or up to five years in prison.