A CAMPAIGN has been launched in a bid to reduce the suffering of helpless animals caught up in this year's bonfire celebrations.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is urging Guy Fawkes revellers to follow a few simple safety steps to prevent needless animal casualties.

Last year the RSPCA received hundreds of emergency calls to animals badly injured by fireworks in accidents or deliberate acts of cruelty.

Chief Veterinary Officer Jim Phillips, said: "Most accidents could be prevented if owners ensured their pets were kept inside after dark.

"Firework displays should be properly organised away from built-up areas and farm animals. Hedgehogs are among the common wildlife casualties, who fall victim to the dangers of fire after crawling into bonfires to hibernate."

The RSPCA wants people to follow its fireworks code to protect animals from the injuries and distress:

Never let off fireworks near animals.

Ensure all pets are kept indoors after dark.

If a dog is particularly sensitive to loud noises, ask a vet to prescribe a sedative.

Take rabbits and other animals, which normally live outdoors, into a garage or outbuilding.

Close curtains and leave a television on to camouflage the noise of fireworks.

Build bonfires as late as possible and gently disturb the fire's foundations at least two hours before lighting to ensure there are no animals inside.

Make sure that pets are properly identified by means of a collar, tag and microchip, in case they escape.

To report injuries to animals this firework season should contact the RSPCA's emergency hot-line on 0990 555999.

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