Whizz-pup! Firework advice for pet owners
WITH firework season set to whizz-pop into our lives again as Halloween, Diwali and Bonfire Night approach, Dogs Trust is issuing advice to dog owners whose pets are scared of the noise. Jenna Kiddie, head of canine behaviour at Dogs Trust, says: ‘The hearing of dogs is around four times more sensitive than that of humans, so loud cracks and bangs can be terrifying. ‘Simple steps such as providing safe spaces for them to hide or settling them before the fireworks start can make a big difference. ‘We would also urge anyone thinking of putting on their own fireworks to consider the welfare of their four-legged friends and others in the neighbourhood by following our Firework Dog Code.’ The advice for dog owners is to:
WALK your dog before dark and feed them early, as they may become unsettled and not want to eat once the noises start.
MAKE sure your house and garden are secure during the fireworks, as fear may make your dog try to escape.
TRY to settle them before the fireworks start. If your dog is in familiar, safe surroundings it will help them cope with the noise.
PROVIDE a hiding place. Make sure they have somewhere safe in their favourite room, perhaps under a table. Close curtains, switch lights on, and turn up the volume on your TV or radio to drown out firework noises.
THOSE hosting a private display should let neighbours know well in advance, so they can prepare their dogs. Limit your display to 30 minutes or less and opt for quieter, lower decibel fireworks. Visit dogstrust.org.uk/
fireworks for further advice.