‘She’s my world’: Dog owner issues firework warning after losing pooch
A distraught man who lost best friend Lucia after New Year’s Eve fireworks is urging Melbourne dog owners to on alert during Australia Day celebrations. TOP TIPS: Here’s how you can safeguard your pets.
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A heartbroken owner who lost his beloved pooch after New Year’s Eve fireworks is warning Melburnians to safeguard their pets ahead of Australia Day celebrations.
Sunshine West’s Harry Verveniotis, 27, lost his best friend Lucia after fireworks caused her to take off on New Year's Eve.
“She just disappeared,” he said.
“At that moment my heart just dropped.”
The two-year-old Italian greyhound is still on the loose.
“I’m worried a lot absolutely, my number one concern is if she’s OK,” Mr Verveniotis said.
“I had the hardest time of my life last year and she was my little rock, she is literally my world.
“Everyone knows how much she means to me and I’m trying everything I can to find her.”
The distraught owner said he was especially concerned because Lucia takes anti-seizure medication.
“I’m scared because it’s the second week she’s been missing and she’s just missed her second pill, so her chances of having a seizure are very high at this stage,” Mr Verveniotis said.
He said Lucia was the sweetest dog with the quirkiest little attitude.
“She’s like a little person,” Mr Verveniotis said.
“She isn’t a dog, she’s my daughter.”
With the next round of fireworks around the corner, the dog lover is warning others to make sure their pooches don’t suffer the same fate.
RSPCA Victoria chief executive Dr Liz Walker said fireworks could trigger a fearful reaction in many animals.
“Some will express fear by being destructive, barking or howling excessively, running away to escape the sounds or other anxious behaviour such as cowering, drooling or shaking,” she said.
Dr Walker said dog owners should try to desensitise their furry friends in the lead up to planned fireworks by playing audio of thunder and fireworks while they are eating or playing.
“It’s a great idea to walk your dog before the scheduled fireworks and allow them to expend energy and make them sleepy,” she said.
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In the event your pooch does go missing, Dr Walker said there were a few things to do to increase the chance of being reunited.
“Make sure your pet’s microchip details are up to date and that they are registered with your local council,” she said.
During fireworks, the RSPCA recommends owners keep pets inside, close curtains and blinds, create distractions such as turning on the TV or playing music, provide food and toys and create a comfortable space for dogs using blankets and bedding.
But if your dog is especially sensitive to the noise, a Thunder Jacket could be your best bet.
If you think you might have sighted Lucia, please click here.