KRALENDIJK – With the holidays approaching, the Public Entity Bonaire (PEB) is calling on residents and visitors to consider the welfare of animals.

The New Year’s period is a festive time, but it can also be stressful and dangerous for animals on the island. For this reason, the government emphasizes the importance of responsible behavior to limit the impact on the wellbeing of animals.

The government highlights that loud noises and bright lights from fireworks cause significant stress for animals. This can lead to panic reactions, injuries, and lasting fear. “For this reason, the Public Entity Bonaire urges everyone to use fireworks responsibly, for the sake of both people and animals,” stated a government press release on Monday.

At the same time, there are several measures that can be taken to minimize discomfort for animals, such as keeping them indoors, only using legal fireworks during permitted hours, avoiding loud explosions, and paying attention to signs that fireworks are affecting an animal.

Reporting

The government calls on everyone to immediately report injured or confused animals to Dierenbescherming Bonaire (Animal Protection Bonaire) or other relevant authorities.