Fewer lost dogs were handed into the Ballarat RSPCA shelter following the Australia Day fireworks on Monday night. 

The numbers were also down statewide, with 50 per cent fewer pooches placed in shelters after the long weekend.

RSPCA Victoria shelter manager Liz Walker said the figures suggested pet owners were taking more responsibility for their animals.

“It was a decrease on last year, which is very encouraging because to us that’s an indicator that owners are more aware of fireworks in their area,” she said. 

“It also shows owners are securing their animals and making sure they are safe.”

Ms Walker said most dogs were reclaimed by their owners within 48 hours of being rescued.

“Once they are in, we scan them for a microchip,” she said. 

“If (the dog) has no microchip or ID on its collar, such as a council registration, we will vaccinate and make sure they have a health check.

“For a healthy dog, they can be in for 11 or 12 days. If we are talking about a dog with medical or behaviour problems, it could take months and months.”

Ms Walker said it was common for owners to be on holidays when their pets escaped. 

She also recommended a series of alternate methods to calm anxious animals during celebrations. 

“They can use calming medications or thunder shirts to help relax their pets,” she said.