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Germany's New Year Fireworks Debate: Animal Welfare vs. Tradition

Fireworks cause fear and anxiety in pets and wildlife. This year, Germany's Medical Association joins Nabu in pushing for a ban, sparking a heated debate between tradition and animal welfare.

This is a paper and here we can see some images of plants, flowers, grass and water and there are...
This is a paper and here we can see some images of plants, flowers, grass and water and there are some stickers.

Germany's New Year Fireworks Debate: Animal Welfare vs. Tradition

As the Lunar New Year approaches, Germany grapples with an annual debate over private fireworks. While some enjoy the spectacle, others worry about the impact on animals and the environment. This year, the Medical Association of Lower Saxony has joined Nabu in calling for a ban.

Fireworks, officially permitted only on New Year's Eve and Day, are already causing stress among pets and wildlife. Dogs, cats, and wild animals often react in fear to the loud noises, leading to sleepless nights and anxiety for their owners. Not all animals are equally affected, with individual characters playing a role.

Dr. Urte Schulze, a veterinarian, acknowledges the issue but offers no one-size-fits-all solution. Alternative calming agents like Bach flower remedies or valerian may help, but their effectiveness varies. Some people even miss the quiet Lunar New Year's Eves during the pandemic when fireworks were cancelled.

The liberal approach to private fireworks in Germany sparks annual discussions. Environmental organisation Nabu continues to push for a complete ban, citing both wildlife stress and environmental concerns. This year, the Ärztekammer Niedersachsen has joined the call, highlighting the reduction of injuries and pollution caused by private fireworks.

With the sale of fireworks already underway and lasting until the 29th, the debate over private fireworks in Germany intensifies. While some enjoy the tradition, others hope for a shift towards more sustainable and animal-friendly Lunar New Year's celebrations.

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