Fireworks and furry friends

It’s that time of year again when festive celebrations are in full swing on the Sunshine Coast and we enjoy the colourful fireworks displays at various events across the region.

But, for the 53,000 dogs that also call the Sunshine Coast home, the fireworks can be frightening.

Community Programs Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said it was important for all dog owners to make sure their pets were safe and secure during a fireworks display.

“Fireworks can distress our dogs and at times it can cause them to escape from their homes and try to run from the loud noise,” Cr McKay said.

“To keep your dog safe during a fireworks event, keep them indoors, close the curtains, turn the TV up to mask the noise and stay with them to keep them calm.

“If you can’t be home, consider having someone else be there to look after your dog or take them to another safe place for the night.

“If your dog does accidentally escape during fireworks, make sure your microchip and registration details are up to date so you can be reunited when your dog is found.”

Here is a list of some upcoming community events that will have a fireworks display.

If you live in these areas please keep these dates and times in mind.

Date	Location	Event	Fireworks Time
December 7	Bli Bli	Bli Bli Community Carols	8.30pm
December 8	Cotton Tree	Carols at Cotton Tree	8pm
December 15	Nambour	Nambour Community Carols	8pm
December 15	Caloundra	Carols on Kings	8pm
December 15	Beerwah	Glasshouse Country Community Carols	8.30pm
December 15	Coolum	Christmas in the Park	8.45pm
December 16	Twin Waters	Twin Waters Christmas Carols	7.30pm
December 24	Mooloolaba	Mooloolaba Christmas Celebrations	sunset
December 31	Mooloolaba	NYE Mooloolaba	8,30pm and midnight
December 31	Coolum	NYE Coolum	8.30pm
December 31	Caloundra	NYE Caloundra	9.15pm

Note: there may be other events that also include fireworks. Please check your local publications for more information.