Dogs Trust urges dog owners to prepare for firework season
“Dogs respond to fireworks in a range of different ways, so it’s crucial to have a clear plan, ahead of time, to help your own dog cope.”- Jenna Kiddie.
Dogs Trust has released advice for dog owners ahead of firework events such as Bonfire Night, Diwali and Halloween.
The dog charity recommends that people who own dogs ‘remember, remember early October’, suggesting that now is the best time to start preparations for caring for your dog during fireworks. It has released advice on its website to support dog owners.
The guidance comes after Dogs Trust’s National Dog Survey of 369,389 dog owners revealed that 45 per cent of respondents found that their dog was not always calm during fireworks.
The group has provided top tips for managing firework season:
- Plan ahead – Ask your neighbours and use social media to learn when local firework displays will happen. This limits surprises, so that you can make arrangements as needed. You can then prepare your dog’s environment in advance, by closing curtains, keeping lights and TVs on and having a safe space for them to retreat to.
- Teach puppies to be relaxed with noises – Use a firework soundtrack such as Dogs Trust’s 'Sounds Scary’ to train your dog to deal with distressing noises. ‘Sounds Scary’ is backed by clinical experience, and is scientifically proven to be a safe and effective tool in the lead up to events.
- Adapt your routine – Gradually change your dog’s routine in the week’s leading up to the events, so that you can avoid taking your dog out when fireworks have started.
- Recognise your dog’s individual needs – While some dogs may be relaxed and unbothered by fireworks, some dogs will show signs of anxiety and fear. Learn to recognise which signs of fear your dog shows, but also be aware of which might signify a health problem.
- Ensure your dog has a recognised safe place – Some dogs benefit from having their own safe space that they can go to when they are worried. Introduce this ‘doggy den’ in advance, so that they build positive associations with it. Some dogs may need reassurance whilst some, though appearing unworried, may still want to be kept occupied with toys and games so they don’t start to get anxious.
- Speak to your veterinary practice – They will be able to provide more specific advice to your pet, and may prescribe medication to help your dog cope.
Jenna Kiddie, head of canine behaviour at Dogs Trust, said: Fear of fireworks is worryingly common in dogs of all ages, and can develop over time, even if your dog hasn’t responded before.
“Dogs respond to fireworks in a range of different ways, so it’s crucial to have a clear plan, ahead of time, to help your own dog cope.”
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Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
