Fireworks are a fun and exciting way to celebrate Territory Day, but for pets they can be extremely stressful.

The Department of Primary Industry and Resources (DPIR) is reminding all pet owners to plan ahead this Territory Day so that their furry friends are kept safe and secure.

DPIR Animal Welfare Manager Paul Mitchener said animals have acute hearing so explosions from fireworks sound louder to them than they do to humans.

“Noise from fireworks can be frightening, confusing and stressful to dogs and other animals,” Mr Mitchener said.

“This can cause them to panic and potentially hurt themselves or run away, so if you’re leaving your pets home alone on Territory Day it’s important they are in a safe and secure area of your home.

“Leave your pet in a quiet, enclosed room, possibly in their travel cage, with the curtains drawn, air-conditioning on and some music on and something to play with to distract them from the explosions outside.”

Pets should be microchipped to allow easy identification in the event that they do escape and go missing.

“The Animal Welfare branch and local council’s work closely together to ensure animal safety and welfare,” Mr Mitchener said.

“Contact your local council if your pet does escape and go missing, or if you find a lost pet.

“You can contact the Animal Welfare Branch on 1300 720 386 if you are concerned about the welfare of an animal.”

There is information and tips about caring for your pets on the Northern Territory Government website: www.animalwelfare.nt.gov.au.

Media contact: Lucy Buhr 08 8999 2097