Warwickshire dog rehoming charity issues advice to help dogs and owners have a less stressful fireworks season - The Rugby Observer

Warwickshire dog rehoming charity issues advice to help dogs and owners have a less stressful fireworks season

Rugby Editorial 22nd Oct, 2021   0

A DOG rehoming charity in Warwickshire is offering tips to help dogs and their owners have a less stressful fireworks season.

With Halloween, Diwali and Bonfire Night on the way, Dogs Trust Kenilworth is issuing advice to help pets who might be scared by fireworks.

Emma-Jane Thomas, Manager at Dogs Trust Kenilworth, said: “Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying and confusing experience for them. Fireworks 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.”

She added that the Dogs Trust website has free sound therapy programmes to train puppies to tolerate loud noises.


She said: “If your dog is very worried by fireworks or other loud noises, they might need longer-term treatment. If that is the case, it would be a good idea for owners to have a chat with their vet. They can check there are no underlying health conditions that might be affecting behaviour, and then owners can discuss referral to an accredited behaviourist for support and tailored advice.”

Here are Dogs Trust’s top tips:

  • Make sure your dog is exercised and fed and has had a toilet break before fireworks start
  • Make sure your house and garden are secure during the fireworks, as some dogs may try to run away if they’re scared
  • Provide dogs with a safe hiding place in their favourite room, close curtains, turn lights on, and turn up the volume on your TV or radio to mask firework noises
  • Keep your dog busy indoors by playing games or practising reward-based training
  • Comfort and reassure your dog, remain calm and avoid telling your dog off
  • Allow dogs to stay where they feel safe.

If you are planning a firework display at home, please consider:

  • Letting your neighbours know in advance, so they can prepare their dogs
  • Limiting your display to 30 minutes or less
  • Opting for quieter, lower decibel fireworks.

Visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/fireworks for more advice about preventing and dealing with dogs’ fear of loud noises.

Advertising

Advertise with the Rugby Observer to reach your audience

Online Editions

Catch up on your local news by reading our e-editions on the Rugby Observer.

Public Notices

View and download all of the public notices in the Rugby Observer.

Announcements

Weddings, Birthdays, Bereavements, Thank you notices, Marriages and more.