A Delft dog was impaled on a gate spike after reportedly panicking during fireworks.
A dog that reportedly tried to escape the noise of fireworks in Delft ended up impaled on a metal gate spike, suffering a serious abdominal injury that prompted an emergency rescue involving the SPCA and Cape Town law enforcement officers.
The dog, named Max, was rushed to a veterinary facility under escort from the Law Enforcement Animal Control Auxiliary Unit, while the Cape of Good Hope SPCA deployed eight inspectors across the city to respond to animals injured, frightened or displaced by fireworks.
An SPCA collection officer was immediately dispatched to assist Max and transport him for treatment.
Recognising the severity of his injuries, the Law Enforcement Animal Control Auxiliary Unit provided an emergency escort, accompanying the officer and Max to the nearest veterinary facility, TAH.
The SPCA shared details of the incident in an appeal to residents to stop setting off fireworks, warning that the consequences for animals can be devastating.
In a separate statement, the organisation confirmed that eight inspectors would be on duty across Cape Town, ready to assist animals frightened, injured or displaced by fireworks.
"For you, it's a few minutes of entertainment. For them, it's a night of terror," the SPCA said.
Fireworks panic can leave animals seriously injured
The SPCA warned that frightened animals may attempt to escape the noise of fireworks, putting themselves at risk of serious injuries and potentially fatal accidents.
Previous incidents reported by the organisation illustrate the dangers.
In Lavender Hill, a dog reportedly became distressed by fireworks, jumped a fence and entered a neighbouring property, where it was attacked by pit bulls. Its injuries were so severe that it had to be euthanised.
In another incident in Scottsville, Kraaifontein, a family returning home discovered their dog dead after it became caught over a fence while secured on a running chain. The owner had reported particularly intense fireworks in the area.
SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abraham previously warned that an animal's attempt to escape fireworks should not be mistaken for misbehaviour.
"A dog jumping a fence or trying to flee a secured area is not 'misbehaviour', it is a fear response," she said.
The SPCA has repeatedly urged pet owners to take precautions during fireworks celebrations.
How to report fireworks and animal emergencies in Cape Town
The SPCA has appealed to residents to stop setting off fireworks, warning that no moment of entertainment is worth the risk to an animal's life.
Pet owners are encouraged to keep their animals indoors, secure gates and windows, and avoid leaving pets unattended during fireworks displays.
Owners of particularly anxious animals are also advised to consult their veterinarians about ways to manage their pets' distress.
Residents who encounter animals in distress can contact the Cape of Good Hope SPCA's after-hours emergency service on 083 326 1604.
The SPCA also provides the following contact numbers for reporting animal emergencies:
Illegal fireworks can be reported to the City of Cape Town on 021 480 7700.