Keep dogs indoors on Bonfire Night

10:30am Sunday 2nd November 2008

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DOG owners are being told to remember to keep their pet pooch indoors on Bonfire Night.

Wychavon District Council and Dogs Trust have told local people to minimise the trauma of the night for their pets by following a few simple guidelines such as do not leave your dog alone in the house, walk your dog before dark and play games with your dog to keep its mind off the loud noises.

Chris Slight, Manager of Dogs Trust Evesham, said: “Some dogs seem to be more sensitive to noise than others, but many dogs are very upset by fireworks.

“The more a dog is frightened by noise, the worse a noise phobia is likely to become so it is important to minimise the problem.”

Pip Singleton, Wychavon District Council dog warden said: “It is not just cats and dogs that don’t like sudden, loud noises, but rabbits, guniea pigs and other small pets too.

“The best thing people can do is keep their pets indoors so everyone can enjoy the fireworks and bonfire night.”

Dog owners are welcome to call Pip for more advice on 01386 565015.

Meanwhile, Dogs Trust Evesham rehoming centre is urging local people to donate edible dog treats. The centre cares for 150 dogs at any one time and its stocks of dog biscuits and chews are running low.

Chris Slight explained: “We use biscuits and chews as training rewards and special treats for the dogs in our care. Our reserves are running low and soon we might need to start rationing treats.”

Donations can be taken to De Montfort Veterinary Hospital, Merstow Green, Evesham, or Dogs Trust Evesham, Pitcher’s Hill, Wickhamford.