Stress caused by New Year's firecrackers: Tips for protecting pets!

Stress caused by New Year's firecrackers: Tips for protecting pets!

Fireworks on New Year's Eve represent an enormously stressful challenge not only for people, but especially for our four-legged friends. Loud MyDistrict.at Dogs and cats experience the loud bangs and unpleasant smoke as extreme stress. Marlies Lochmann, the head of the animal shelter in Hallein, warns that the firecrackers border on animal cruelty. To prevent animals from becoming stressed, she recommends closing the curtains and playing calming music. If the animals still react fearfully, a safe place to retreat is important to give them a feeling of security.

Seniors find life companions in the Hallein animal shelter

A very special project was launched at the Hallein animal shelter that brings older animals together with senior citizens. How SN.at reports, around 70 elderly cats and around 50 older dogs have now found a new home. Marlies Lochmann explains that many older people are unsure whether they can afford to have an animal or whether they can no longer get a dog or cat from other organizations. This program offers these people the opportunity to spend their twilight years with an animal companion.

One example of this is senior Heidi, who gave a cat from the program a home. Their concerns were quickly dispelled as the shelter always offers support if questions or problems arise. The support extends to taking over the animals if the foster carers are no longer able to look after their animal. “We take back every animal for life,” assures Lochmann. This shows the shelter's commitment to both the animals and the people who care for them. It is particularly important to be informed about the potential veterinary costs, which can quickly increase with older animals. The animal shelter ensures that no animal is rehomed without first checking the location in order to guarantee a long-term and loving solution.