Protect dogs from fireworks stress

A leading dog’s charity has issued advice for owners and people holding home fireworks displays to help protect pets.

Dogs Trust is urging all dog owners to take preventative measures to prepare their dogs as this year’s cancellation of large-scale organised displays means more are expected to be held in private gardens.

Sue Embleton, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Darlington said: “For many dogs and their owners, firework season is always one they dread.

"Dogs have about four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud crack sand bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying experience for them.

"We would also urge anyone thinking of putting on their own fireworks display to consider the welfare of their four-legged friends and others in the neighbourhood by following our Firework Dog Code.”

Advice for owners includes:

Make sure your dog is well-exercised and has had a toilet break before the fireworks begin. Feed your dog before the fireworks begin.

Make sure your house and garden are secure during the fireworks as fear may make your dog try to escape. Try to settle your dog before the fireworks start.

Provide a safe hiding place in their favourite room, perhaps under a table.

Close curtains, turn lights on, and turn up the volume on your TV or radio to drown out fire work noise sand flashing lights.

For more information visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/fireworks