New advice has been issued to dog owners ahead of Bonfire Night, Halloween, and Diwali in the next few weeks.
Dogs can often be spooked by the unexpected bangs, bursts, and pops of fireworks.
The celebrations can be made less anxiety-inducing, however, the Dogs Trust says.
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Dawn Bishop, who manages the Dogs Trust Manchester branch, in Denton, has also urged displays organisers to consider man’s best friend when putting together their events.
“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,” Dawn said. “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.”
Tips from the Trust include walking your dog before dark, securing your house and garden to stop dogs running away in fear, and allowing them to hide in a comfy place.
New puppy owners can also take advantage of some training resources from the Trust to normalise the sound of fireworks.
Dawn added: “For those who have welcomed a puppy into their life recently, we also have free sound therapy programmes on our website that can help to gradually expose puppies to different noises in a positive way, so they perceive them as normal.
“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.”
The charity also advises those people planning domestic displays to inform neighbours of their plans, keeping the show to under half an hour, and using quieter fireworks.
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