I DON'T want to throw a damp squib into New Year celebrations, but why are more fireworks now set off then than on November 5?

Our poor pets and wildlife are subjected to another night of fear because of thoughtless humans.

A RSPCA survey published this week shows vets treated 3,639 animals for stress caused by fireworks on and around Bonfire Night this year and it fears this is just the tip of the iceberg.

The research showed that a massive 97 per cent of the vets who responded found that the number of firework-related cases they dealt with this year had either increased or remained the same as last year.

This indicates that the Government's firework regulations have not helped reduce the distress loud fireworks cause animals.

Vets found that dogs were the most affected by fireworks with 88 per cent of cases involving them.

The RSPCA's chief veterinary adviser Tim Miles said the increasing number of incidents proves the Government should do more to combat the suffering loud fireworks cause.

Our canine pals show their fear in many different ways through barking, hyperventilation, destructive behaviour, loss of appetite, licking or panting, shaking, hiding, whimpering and self-harm. Not only is this distressing for the animal, it is upsetting for owners who have no power to remove the cause of the fear. This distress could be dramatically reduced if fireworks no louder than 97 decibels - similar to a car door slamming were available to the public for private displays. The current noise level is 120 decibels equivalent to a jet taking off. Fireworks don't have to be loud to be impressive.

Those who must celebrate in this way are urged to buy low-noise fireworks that are registered as Category Two under the British Standards mark.

The charity urges anyone who feels strongly as I do about the distress fireworks cause to pets, wildlife and livestock to contact their MP and ask them to write to Consumer Affairs Minister Gerry Sutcliffe.