Bonfire season even more stressful for dogs this year

More first-time owners, more puppies and more fireworks could make this Bonfire season the most difficult yet for dogs. As most large displays are cancelled this year due to Covid, there is expected to be a much higher than usual number of back garden fireworks. For dogs, this means bangs and flashes going off potentially on any day at any time, right next to their home.

The charity Guide Dogs says that this, coupled with a rise in inexperienced dog owners who bought a pup during lockdown, could pose an increased stress risk for pets. Website Pets4Homes has seen a huge increase from last year with over 340k dogs finding new homes after appearing on the website in the year to date.

Guide Dogs’ own research with dog owners shows that over a quarter  of their pet’s biggest fear is fireworks and loud noises. Meaning bonfire season 2020 could be even more stressful for over 2 million dogs. Additional research  shows that 52% of dog owners reported their dog to be affected by fireworks in some way, and the majority developed the fear within the first year of life.

Aston spoke to Dr Helen Whiteside, head of research at Guide Dogs to discuss the research in further detail and also offered her advice.

Photo by Berkay Gumustekin on Unsplash