Dogs Trust is launching a new firework dog safety campaign to urge the public to help our four-legged friends this November 5th.
Today, the charity launches the ‘Firework Dog Code’ campaign in a bid to limit the distressing effects fireworks can have on dogs.
According to a new survey by Dogs Trust over 50% of people think fireworks should be limited to public displays and almost 80% of people agree that fireworks should be restricted to certain times of the year only.
Current law states that anyone over the age of 18 can legally buy fireworks and set them off at any time anywhere. Almost 70% of people would also support increasing the age people can legally buy fireworks from 18 to 21
Published data suggests that 49% of dogs show signs of fear to loud noises including fireworks. Hiding, shaking, cowering and even running away are all behaviours that frightened dogs have exhibited to their owners during fireworks, according to a recent survey.
The ‘Firework Dog Code’ initiative offers guidance that both dog owners and non-dog owners can follow to help make a huge difference to the welfare of the nation’s dogs.
By asking members of the public to share the infographic with the hashtag #FireworkDogCode, the dog charity hopes this new campaign will not only increase awareness amongst dog owners, but also reach people having their own displays, who may not be aware of the extreme distress fireworks cause dogs.
The campaign urges dog owners and non-dog owners to:
- Try to go to organised displays only.
- If you do hold your own display, let your neighbours know well in advance.
- Limit your display to 30 mins.
- Opt for quieter, lower decibel fireworks.
- If you have a dog, help them to feel calm and safe with these handy tips….www.dogstrust.org.uk/fireworks.
Tracey Rae, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Shoreham, said: “Many of us enjoy the experience of fireworks, especially when it comes to traditional Guy Fawkes Night celebrations on November 5, but for our dogs its often a terrifying and confusing experience.
“Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans and can hear much higher frequency sounds than we can – so just imagine how loud the whizz, pop and bang of fireworks can be for a dog. Fireworks tend to be sudden, unpredictable and bright. This combination of effects can often have a profoundly negative and in many cases, lasting impact on dogs. We would urge anyone thinking of putting on a fireworks display to consider their four-legged friends and follow our Firework Dog Code to help all dogs have a safe and happy November 5.”
For information on the Firework Dog Code, you can visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/fireworks.
