With Bonfire Night approaching on Thursday, November 5, Guide Dogs, the UK's leading sight loss charity for dogs, is advising owners to begin desensitising their pets to the sound of fireworks now. The charity has launched The National Fireworks Archive, a free training video containing fireworks footage filmed by the public, to help owners gradually introduce their pets to the associated sounds before the night.
Fireworks Anxiety Affects Millions of Dogs
Guide Dogs found that the average UK adult has seven minutes of fireworks footage saved on their phone. Additionally, almost two thirds (63 per cent) of the UK's dogs, an estimated 9.9 million animals, are affected by fireworks anxiety.
79 per cent of dog owners say they do not do anything to prepare for Bonfire Night. While 35 per cent said they did not know that dogs could be desensitised to fireworks.
Expanding the Training Archive
The charity is hoping to expand the training archive with a greater variety of clips. These clips would be recorded from different distances and locations. Additionally, the charity wants to capture the whistles and crackles of screechers and Catherine wheels and the sudden bangs of rockets and larger displays. Anyone with videos that may help can send them to press@guidedogs.org.uk.
Expert Advice on Desensitisation
Haley Andrews, a Guide Dogs expert, said: “Fireworks night is just round the corner but there’s still time to start desensitising beloved pets now.
“It’s straightforward, relatively easy to do and can help avoid the heartache, expense and disruption so many dog owners experience in the weeks running up to and even after Bonfire Night on November 5.
“By introducing the sounds gradually, at a level their dog can cope with, owners can give their pet, and their household, the best possible chance of having a calmer Bonfire Night.”
Preparing for Bonfire Night
Owners are being recommended to start early with desensitisation. To do this, they should begin by playing the videos at the lowest volume for two to five minutes, once or twice a day. Once the dog remains relaxed, the volume can be increased, with different sounds carefully introduced.
As for Bonfire Night itself, a safe place will help your pooch out. Guide Dogs recommend making a quiet, cosy den with blankets, toys and familiar scents, with treats hidden inside throughout the day so the dog learns to associate it with feeling safe.
Owners should take their dog out for a final toilet break before dark on Bonfire Night. They are also encouraged to close the curtains, turn on the TV or radio, prepare a food item and let the dog choose where to settle.
