Top tips to keep your dog calm on Bonfire Night
There's expected to be a lot of displays in the coming week
With Bonfire Night taking place on Saturday 5th November, it's expected that there will be a large number of displays in the coming days, leading to dog owners being very worried for the welfare of their furry friends.
Of course, if you have a dog yourself, you'll be aware they tend to get very anxious and scared with the loud bangs and flashes going off, which can lead to unusual bad behaviour, illness and many other unsettling traits.
A number of dog welfare charities have issued top tips to pet owners for Bonfire Night.
Top tips to keep your dog calm on Bonfire Night:
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
They may become unsettled and not want to eat during the fireworks.
Make sure your house and garden are secure
Close all windows and doors 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. However, don't confine your dog to one room as they may become more anxious.
Turn up the TV or play loud music
Turn up your TV to a loud volume or play loud music in an attempt to mask the noise of fireworks. Classical music is a proven calming technique for dogs.
Close your curtains
Flashing lights caused by fireworks can also make your dog anxious, shutting your curtains and having lights on in your home will help.
As well a organised displays, there's also set to be a number of private displays across the county.
Dogs Trust is said to be supportive of the Government introducing further restrictions around the sale of fireworks, limiting them to licensed, public occasions at certain times of the year, and organised events only.
The charity has also given advice for people holding private garden displays and how they can be considerate of the four-legged residents in their neighbourhoods.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU'RE HOSTING A PRIVATE FIREWORKS DISPLAY:
• 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.