Kingstons RSPCA is bracing itself once again for a surge in animal casualties as the bonfire and firework season kicks off.

In a bid to curb the annual number of casualties, the society is warning that animals may be killed or seriously harmed unless suitable precautions are taken to look after them.

In Kingston last year, the branch dealt with injuries to a variety of animals caused by fireworks, some deliberate, including burns to the tail, scorched whiskers and many cases of shock.

Susan Blake, senior officer at Kingston RSPCA said: It is advisable for all pets to be kept inside when there are fireworks going off. Your pet will be much safer in its familiar surroundings where it can stay out of harms way.

It helps to have a radio or television on in the background. And rabbits and guinea pigs should be brought indoors.

The RSPCA has produced a guide with a number of points to safeguard animals during the forthcoming celebrations as best as possible:

p Never let off fireworks near any animals.

p Ensure all pets are kept indoors after dark.

p If your pet dog is particularly sensitive to loud noises, ask your vet to prescribe a sedative.

p Take rabbits and other pets who live outdoors into a garage or outbuilding.

p Close your curtains and leave a television or radio on to camouflage the noise of fireworks.

p Build bonfires as late as you possibly can and disturb the fires foundations at least two hours before lighting the fire. Hedgehogs can crawl into bonfires.

p Make sure pets are properly identified by means of a collar and tag, or in some cases a microchip, just in case they get frightened and run away.

Information about suspected cruelty or injured animals can be reported directly to the RSPCA by calling 08705 555999.