Shrewsbury Dogs Trust issues advice for dog owners ahead of firework season

With bonfire night, Diwali and Halloween on the horizon, Dogs Trust Shrewsbury is urging owners to prep ahead of the firework season, as a study reveals almost half of dogs find them stressful.

The charity has published a series of helpful tips for keeping pups feeling safe and sound.

Sue Bromley, assistant manager at Dogs Trust Shrewsbury, said: “Fireworks season can be distressing for our four-legged friends, so it is important that owners prepare early.

“As we move into autumn and winter, there are lots of loud celebrations which take place, including Diwali, Halloween, and Bonfire Night.

"Noise-related fear is very common in dogs of all ages and can have an impact on their wellbeing. By following our top tips and advice, owners can help their dogs cope during this noisy period.”

Dogs Trust Shrewsbury guidance on how to best protect your pups

• Be prepared for local fireworks displays, to limit any surprises and to make arrangements so your dog isn’t left alone. Ask neighbours and use social media to find out about upcoming events or parties. Prepare their environment in advance, such as closing curtains, keeping lights and the TV on and creating a safe space for them to retreat to.

• Teach pups to be relaxed with noises. Sounds Scary is a firework soundtrack which can help your puppy deal with distressing noises. Sounds Scary is not only backed by years of clinical experience, but it is also scientifically proven to be safe, effective and easy to use in the lead-up to autumn festivities.

• Adapt your routine. Avoid taking your dog out when fireworks have started, gradually change their routine in the weeks leading up to events. For example, start walking them earlier in the day to allow them time to exercise and toilet before dark.

• Recognise the individual needs of your dog. Dogs can react very differently to fireworks. Some appear relaxed and unbothered by the whizzes and bangs; others show signs of anxiety or fear. They may show subtle signs, such as panting or licking their lips, finding somewhere to hide or seeking attention from their human family. Or they may show more obvious signs, such as pacing, barking or even toileting in the house. Whilst these signs can be related to fear of noise, they can also indicate other underlying health problems so please contact your vet for advice if you are concerned.

• Ensure your dog has an established safe space. Some dogs will benefit from having a safe place to retreat to should they feel worried by fireworks, whether or not they have previously shown signs of worry. Introduce this safe place well in advance and encourage them there by building up positive associations with their new ‘doggy den’. Other dogs will cope best by seeking reassurance, so give them attention and comfort if they seek this out. Some dogs may not seem worried, and it's best to keep them occupied with their favourite items or activities so they don’t start to get anxious – experiment before the fireworks season begins, and slowly introduce them, to find out what they enjoy the most.

• Speak to your vet well ahead of fireworks events. They can help with advice and may also prescribe medication to help your dog cope. Medication can be extremely useful when dogs are fearful as it can not only help them cope during the fireworks event but also stop their fear from escalating after each event.

For more information, visit: dogstrust.org.uk/fireworks