Relaxing ‘Rover’ whilst rockets roar this Bonfire Night Dogs Trust Leeds advises owners on how to help their dogs cope with their fear of fireworks

Local News

Staff at Dogs Trust Leeds are getting ready to help petrified pooches cope this November as fireworks screech and soar into the night sky.
As thousands of families head off to enjoy the annual displays, dog owners are preparing for one of the most stressful times of year and the charity is hoping its tips will help the dogs in their care such as two-year-old Chihuahua, Benny, as well as dogs throughout the region, stay as relaxed as possible during fireworks season.
Amanda Sands, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Leeds, says: “Dogs don’t understand that fireworks are part of our celebrations, for them they are sudden, unpredictable, bright and very loud so it’s not surprising that so many become scared.
“We do our best every day of the year to keep our dogs relaxed but it’s particularly difficult when fireworks start, so it’s important to understand each dog so we know how to help them the best we can.
“Our canine carers do all they can, finding out what works best to help each dog cope. For some this might be building dens where they feel safe or playing classical music to mask the sounds, or being with people.”
The charity says that although a fear of fireworks is very common in dogs, their reactions can vary.
Some might want to hide and if that’s the case the charity recommends creating a safe enclosed area, a ‘den’, in the home where they can retreat to. Others will go to their owners for reassurance and will benefit from sitting close by and having a stroke or a cuddle – whatever they are used to and enjoy.
When it comes to Benny, they have found listening to music and spending extra time with his favourite two-legged friend helps.
Amanda says: “He is a great boy but is definitely not a lover of loud noises so we’re making sure he has had lots of mental and physical exercise so he’s as relaxed as possible, we play music when he is in his kennel to help mask the sounds and we also make sure a member of staff stays with him to help him cope.”
As fireworks are let off in neighbourhoods, not just at publicised public displays that can be prepared for, the charity advise that whilst there is a risk of them being set off:
Walk your dog only in daylight hours, perhaps skipping the evening walk and doing additional play and training inside.
Try not to leave your dog alone when there is a risk of fireworks.
Close the curtains and leave the TV or radio on.
Seek advice from your vet – dogs with severe fears can be prescribed medication to reduce anxiety.
If your dog comes to you for reassurance during fireworks, it is fine to give them attention for now, but you need to teach him or her a different way of coping in the future, to avoid him or her being much more scared if fireworks go off when you’re not at home.
If you have a confident canine who doesn’t appear to be concerned by fireworks, it’s still a good idea to engage them in activities like simple training involving their favourite toy or treat, or perhaps give them a food activity toy to keep them distracted from the loud noises.
Plan ahead for next year! If your dog is frightened then start teaching them that fireworks noises are nothing to be sacred of by gradually associating the noise with something nice. You can do this by introducing them to the Sounds Scary programme available to download on the Dogs Trust website.

Amanda says: “We really hope these tips help dog lovers get their dogs through what can be a distressing time for so many dogs, and owners. By the time the fireworks have faded away, we’re really hoping Benny has found that special someone who will give him the forever home he deserves.”
To find out more about how to keep your dog relaxed during fireworks season go to www.dogstrust.org.uk and take a look at our video showing how to build a den for your dog here – http://bit.ly/2f6unpn
If you are interested in rehoming Benny please call 0300 303 0292 to find out more.
Photo – The Dogs Trust Leeds team are hoping that with the help of his favourite two-legged friends and music to mask the din of fireworks, two-year-old Chihuahua, Benny, will be able to relax.

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