Lort Smith has joined Zoos Victoria and Phillip Island Nature Park’s campaign to protect native birdlife by pledging to stop using balloons at outdoor events.

When used outdoors, balloons and related attachments can find their way into oceans and waterways, potentially harming native seabirds. For example, more than 80% of baby seabirds on Lord Howe Island have ingested rubbish, with balloons and their attachments one of the most identifiable items.

Zoos Victoria and Phillip Island Nature Parks are calling on the community to switch to blowing bubbles rather than balloons for outdoor celebrations to help keep precious native wildlife safe. Lort Smith, Australia’s busiest animal hospital, is lending its support to this issue.

Balloons aren’t just dangerous for native wildlife, they also pose a risk to domestic animals. We regularly treat pets who have digested balloons or other similar objects.

Right now, Lort Smith is currently caring for Pearl, a Mastiff cross puppy who had become very unwell after eating two deflated balloons. She is now recovering with a foster carer before she’s ready to be permanently adopted.