Furry friends are notoriously afraid of fireworks, especially around Bonfire Night.
K9 Search UK, a search team that tracks missing dogs, has issued advice to dog owners to prepare their pets for Bonfire Night, how to deal with scared dogs, and what to do in the worst case scenario if they run away.
The booming noise and unpredictability of fireworks can set off dogs' flight or fight response.
The group says that the extremely loud bangs and high-pitched noises can cause dogs to break off a lead, scale the highest of fences and even attempt to break through windows.
If this happens, there is said to be no point calling your dog back because they just won't hear you.
Heartbreakingly, K9 Search says a lot of dogs die in road traffic accidents, on train tracks and in waterways during firework season.
Jennie Dhanjal, from K9 Search UK, said: "If you know that your dog is affected by fireworks, avoid walking them at times when fireworks are likely to be released.
"Don't leave your dog outdoors after dusk. Ensure your dog is microchipped with up to date contact details and wearing a collar with tagged contact information.
"Keep your doors and windows closed as we've had dogs jump out of high rise flat windows during fireworks."
The service is urging pet owners to save K9 Search UK's number on their phones or bookmark their site just in case the worst should happen.
K9 has put together this list of dos and don'ts:
- Always keep your dogs, cats and other pets indoors when fireworks are being let off.
- Avoid walking dogs at times when fireworks are likely to be released, we encourage early morning walks where possible.
- Always close all doors and windows, remember to close off cat flaps. This will ensure that your pet cannot escape.
- Draw your curtains, ensure there is background noise such as a radio or TV.
- Never take your dog to a firework display or leave them outside unattended.
- Ensure that your pet is wearing a collar and ID tag at all times or microchipped (ensuring your contact details are up to date)
- Don't assume your dog isn't affected by fireworks - look out for tell-tale signs of stress, panting, yawning and pacing.
- If your dog runs for cover under a table or bed, don't stop them, allow them to continue. Help by adding some comfortable pillows, familiar toys and treats.
- Never shout at them.
- Please bring rabbits, guinea pigs, birds and other small animals indoors and give them extra bedding. Some of these pets can die from heart attacks if overstressed. Cover the cages with a blanket to dull the noise.