A sheep has suffered a suspected firework burn and another had to be rescued from brambles after fleeing its field in fright, prompting a safety warning from the GSPCA.
The incidents happened on Thursday evening, as the charity warned islanders to consider the impact of fireworks on livestock and other animals.
With more than 50 firework events registered on the States of Guernsey website and another 50-plus displays expected, the GSPCA is urging organisers and the public to check display locations and take precautions to protect nearby animals.
Local farmer Denise Fallazie contacted the GSPCA after discovering one of her ewes had suffered what is believed to have been a firework-related burn during the night.
Ms Fallazie said: “I called the GSPCA to advise that one of our ewes currently in one of the orchid fields in St Peter’s had been burnt with what we presume is the remnant of a firework overnight.
“Fortunately the burning did not penetrate her skin but nonetheless would have been a very unpleasant and frightening experience for her and the rest of the flock.
“Our ewe, Lucky, hasn’t needed any treatment and in any event there is no livestock vet to treat her on island at the moment. One of our ram lambs in a field off the Coudre had bolted through the electric fence into brambles. He had to be cut out because he was stuck. It’s been a difficult day.”
Steve Byrne, GSPCA Manager, said: “Every year we remind people that whilst fireworks can be a wonderful celebration for many, they can be extremely frightening for animals.
“In this case it appears that one sheep has been injured by what is believed to have been a firework remnant, whilst another became so frightened that it escaped its field and became tangled in brambles. Thankfully both animals appear to be okay, but the incidents demonstrate just how much distress fireworks can cause.
“If you own animals, please take sensible precautions where possible, such as moving livestock away from known display locations, checking fencing, bringing pets indoors, closing curtains and providing safe areas where animals can shelter.”
The GSPCA is asking anyone organising or attending firework displays over the weekend to be mindful of nearby animals and to report any injured animals to the charity on 01481 257261.
