Guide dog owners fear for their pets ahead of Bonfire Night
New research reveals more than a quarter of guide dogs have a negative reaction to fireworks
New research reveals more than a quarter of guide dogs have a negative reaction to fireworks.
26% of guide owners (from a poll from the charity Guide Dogs) report their dogs show signs of fear and distress like trembling, pacing, panting or barking when the fireworks go off.
A further 12% of owners stated that their guide dogs are noticeably uncomfortable when fireworks are going off nearby.
Since fireworks at this time of year go on for weeks on end and can go off at unexpected times, Guide Dogs wish to educate the public on the impact this can have on guide dog owners as many have to alter their routines, and have their independence curtailed due to the anxiety their dogs experience.
Amanda Baker, from Clwyd, has a guide dog called Eddie. She said: “Fireworks are something that Eddie really struggles with."
"He gets himself into such a state and you can’t comfort him. He’s a big golden retriever and he climbs all over me."
"I’d like people to realise the effect fireworks have. Without fireworks he’s fine, a wonderful guide dog. Eddie is my independence and that’s taken away from me at this time of year.”
Tim Stafford, Director of Canine Affairs at Guide Dogs said: "Fireworks seem to go on for weeks every year and can start at unexpected times.
"This can lead to guide dog owners having to change their routines and always ensure they are home every evening to try and protect their guide dog.
"In the most extreme cases, in spite of our trainers’ best efforts, fireworks fear may mean the end of a guide dog partnership with the dog having to retire from working life.”
Guide Dogs is urging people not to buy and set off their own fireworks this year, and instead attend organised local displays. Such events adhere to set times and dates so allow guide dog owners and other dog owners to prepare.