Bonfire Night is a tradition dating back hundreds of years but fireworks going on sale in advance can mean explosions plague neighbourhoods up and down the UK for weeks – often bringing terror to our pets.
And it’s not just displays or families which use the fireworks, often vandals like to purchase the gunpowder-based items and set them off, sometimes targeting property, pets and even people.
Around 14 million people are expected to hold private firework displays at home or with family and friends in the UK over the coming week, according to a survey by the RSPCA.
Measuring between 150 and 175 decibels, fireworks are louder than many planes at take-off and can cause permanent damage to human hearing.
Tragically the Mirror reports, last year Sharon and Roger Fane’s beloved greyhound Raven had to be put to sleep after she broke both her legs when she was spooked by a firework.
Take our Express.co.uk poll below and tell us if you think fireworks should be banned. If you can’t see the poll, click here.
According to the RSPCA, planning ahead is important when it comes to Guy Fawkes’ Night and pets. The animal welfare charity says: “Before the fireworks season starts, provide your dog with a doggy safe haven. This should be a quiet area, so choose one of the quietest rooms in your home – a place where they feel in control. Don’t interfere with your dog when they’re in that area.
“Train your dog to associate the area with positive experiences, e.g. by leaving their favourite toys there, but not imposing yourself at any time. Use a variety of chew toys, such as stuffed Kongs and chews. Swap them regularly, putting them away when not in use so that your dog doesn’t become bored with them.
“With time, dogs can learn that this place is safe and enjoyable. When fireworks go off, they may choose to go there because they know, in that place, they are safe. It’s important that your dog has access to this doggy safe haven at all times – even when you’re not at home.”
Another potential helpful tool to calm down a dog on the big day is by giving them a treat in the shape of Nibbles: Dog Calming Treats, the Manchester Evening News report.
The dog calming cookies are full of naturally calming ingredients, such as chamomile and lemon balm – plus, they’re also made of turkey, which is not only tasty for your pooch, but full of the amino acid L-tryptophan, which also has relaxing properties.
And it’s not just for bonfire night – it can also help calm your dog down during stressful scenarios like long car journeys or even when you’re going to be apart for a while.
If you wanted to shop around, there are alternative options for dog calming treats. You can buy Pets At Home Calming Puppy Treats for £2.19 for a one-time purchase of 50g. Meanwhile, if you didn’t want to opt for biscuits, Pooch & Mutt’s Calm & Relaxed Dry Food costs £8.49 for 1kg.
