Prague has launched a campaign to promote proper behavior and considerate treatment of animals during New Year’s celebrations. The initiative includes ten tips to ensure pets are safe on New Year’s Eve, as well as general advice on protecting dogs and what to do if a pet gets lost.
“Your brief joy, their great sorrow” (Vaše krátká radost, jejich velké trápení) is the motto of the new campaign initiated by the City of Prague. It highlights the harmful impact of fireworks on animals in the metropolis.
“Our city is home to both people and animals. There are 67,000 registered dogs in Prague alone—not to mention cats, parrots, and other species, including farm and wild animals. All of them suffer because of pyrotechnics, which cause not only immense stress but often serious and even fatal injuries,” explains Jiří Pospíšil, Deputy Mayor of the City of Prague.
The campaign’s visuals, displayed both on city streets and online, provide practical tips for pet owners. These are aimed not only at dog owners and include advice on how to make the holidays safe and stress-free for animals, as well as steps to take if a pet escapes.
“Wild animals also suffer from fireworks, and unlike pets, they cannot rely on caring owners to protect them. The city has a responsibility to safeguard these animals. I hope this campaign helps reduce the number of injuries, especially among waterfowl cared for at the city’s rescue center,” adds Jana Komrsková, Prague’s Deputy Mayor for Environment and Climate Plan.
Advice for Pet Owners
The city advises dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead at all times in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve and on New Year’s Day. Ensure collars are securely fastened to prevent animals from slipping out. Along with a microchip, dogs should wear a collar with a tag that includes the owner’s name and contact details.
On New Year’s Eve, take longer walks during daylight hours and avoid outdoor activities in the evening. Dogs should not be taken to areas where fireworks or firecrackers are likely to be used, such as the city center.
If possible, stay at home with your pets on New Year’s Eve. The presence of familiar people helps provide a sense of security and calm for animals.
What to Do if a Pet Escapes
If a pet escapes, contact the city police immediately. Provide details such as the location of the escape, the animal’s name, a description, and its health and behavior characteristics. Having the microchip number and the owner’s contact details ready can also be helpful. Social networks, particularly local groups, can be effective for posting search appeals. Returning to the place where the animal was last seen may also yield success, as many pets instinctively return to familiar locations after the initial fright.
As in previous years, the Pyrotechnics Ordinance bans fireworks in specific areas of the city. In addition, the city has introduced an alternative program under the slogan “Culture Instead of Fireworks,” offering discounted admission to museums, Prague Zoo, the botanical garden, and other institutions.
“I appeal to both citizens and visitors to be considerate and sensitive towards animals and fellow human beings,” emphasizes Jiří Pospíšil.
City police advise that all dogs should be microchipped and their data registered. Without registration, a chip remains just a numerical code without the owner’s contact details.
The municipal animal shelter in Troja also warns against giving dogs tranquilizers or sedatives without veterinary advice. Improper medication can significantly harm animals and heighten the stress caused by loud noises.
