CAPE TOWN – The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has reported a significantly calmer Guy Fawkes Night for animals in Cape Town compared to previous years, primarily due to the collaborative efforts of Law Enforcement officials and the SPCA team.
Operating between 04:00 on 5 November and 07:00 on 6 November, the SPCA Inspectorate received 51 calls, of which only seven were directly linked to fireworks incidents—showing notable progress from prior years.
Incidents still occurred
Despite the overall reduction in fireworks-related issues, a few concerning incidents occurred.
- in Delft, SPCA Inspectors rescued a dog trapped between a wall and a Wendy house
- in Claremont, children were reported throwing fireworks at a dog
- In Seawinds, a dog attacked family members after being startled by fireworks
- in Mitchells Plain, particularly Tafelsig, and Bishop Lavis, there were multiple reports of firework-related disturbances, including a dog that attacked its owner due to fear caused by the explosions.
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Law enforcement makes the difference
City Law Enforcement officials played a critical role by confiscating fireworks and issuing fines in several cases, which helped deter malicious behavior and minimise harm to animals. Additionally, the SPCA’s 24-hour line received routine welfare calls concerning sick or injured animals, not directly linked to fireworks.
SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abraham expressed gratitude for the support from Law Enforcement, highlighting their essential role in allowing the SPCA to operate amidst the chaos. She also acknowledged that concerted enforcement and community awareness seem to be yielding results, as suggested by Cape Animal Welfare Forum’s consensus that fireworks-related complaints have declined significantly compared to previous years.
Animals still missing
However, Abraham voiced ongoing concerns regarding terrified animals that may have run away and are still lost. “Terrified animals can cover great distances, and animals from the hardest-hit areas could be anywhere by now,” she added.
The SPCA urged residents to stay alert for displaced or frightened animals. Advice was given to owners of missing pets to report cases using the SPCA’s online form (https://capespca.co.za/services/lost-and-found/), or contact the Lost and Found Department at 021 700 4166 or via email at lostandfound@spca-ct.co.za.
This year’s calmer night, though far from incident-free, has brought some relief to Cape Town’s animals, showcasing the positive impact of collaboration, law enforcement, and community awareness.
