Tallinn invites people to give up New Years fireworks and donate to animal shelters
Tallinn Zoo, together with the Estonian Society for the Protection of Animals, the Animal Shelters NGO and the association Loomus, are calling for an end to the use of fireworks during the holidays as it causes great distress to animals every year.
“This year, Tallinn has decided to drop New Year’s Eve fireworks and instead offer people a beautiful light show. As well as saving money, this is the right decision because every year fireworks cause stress to pets, zoo residents and species living in urban habitats. I would urge everyone to give up private fireworks and instead make a donation to an animal charity,” said Deputy Mayor Vladimir Svet.
Dozens of pets run away from their homes every year during the festive season because of fireworks, and confused animals can cause accidents or hurt themselves. Unfortunately, some individual fireworks still appear so the source of the problem remains. Fireworks are accompanied by noise and flashes of light that frighten animals. It is advised to bring all outdoor pets indoors for New Year’s Eve or stay with them and reassure them if necessary. However, such protection measures cannot be applied to animals living in the wild or in Tallinn Zoo.
Residents can donate to Tallinn Zoo, Animal Shelters NGO, Estonian Society for the Protection of Animals and the association Loomus.