Advice for owners of dogs scared of fireworks

With firework season set to whizz-pop into our lives again with the approach of Halloween, Diwali and Bonfire Night, Denton-based Dogs Trust is issuing advice to dog owners whose pets are scared of fireworks.

The charity says that the time to prepare your dog is now as leaving it until the night to try and relax your pet is likely to be too late.

With many public firework displays set to be cancelled this year due to Covid-19, and the likelihood that more people will host private displays in their back gardens, Dogs Trust Manchester is issuing top tips to owners to help their dogs cope with these potentially distressing events.

Jenna Kiddie, Head of Canine Behaviour at Dogs Trust, says: “Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying experience for them. 

“Fireworks also tend to be sudden, unpredictable and bright. This combination can be distressing and have a lasting impact on dogs.

“There are lots of things dog owners can do to help make fireworks less stressful for their dogs. 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 display to consider the welfare of their four-legged friends and others in the neighbourhood by following our Firework Dog Code.”

Advice for dog owners includes:

• Walk your dog before dark – make sure your dog is well exercised and has had a toilet break before the fireworks begin.

• Feed your dog before the fireworks begin as they may become unsettled and not want to eat during the fireworks.

• 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 – if your dog is in familiar safe surroundings it will help them cope with the noise.

• Provide a safe hiding place – make sure your dog has somewhere safe 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 firework noises and flashing lights.

Advice for people wishing to host a private display includes: 

• Let your neighbours know well in advance, so they can prepare their dogs.

• Limit your display to 30 minutes or less.

• Opt for quieter, lower decibel fireworks.

For further advice about preventing and dealing with fear of loud noises such as fireworks, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/fireworks