While New Year is a time for people to celebrate some dog owners dread it.
Many people love to bring in the New Year with a bang and use fireworks to light up the night's sky in joyous celebrations. But the loud bangs don't bring joy to all and often leave dogs terrified and stressed out.
Pets can be easily startled by them, causing stress and anxiety. With this in mind, the Blue Cross has some tips for owners to help make their homes feel safer for their pets.
READ MORE: Man left 'lying in blood' after dog attacked by 'vicious creature'
Animal behaviourist Becky Skyrme told the Mirror : "Prepare a 'den' for your dog where they can feel safe and comfortable – perhaps under a bed with some of your old clothes. They may like to hide there when the fireworks start.
"Avoid leaving your dog alone if you know there are going to be fireworks nearby. If you do have to leave the house, don’t get angry with your dog if you find they have been destructive after being left on their own. Shouting at a frightened dog will only make them more stressed."
On the day, owners should make sure their dog is walked before the fireworks start. They should never take their dog to a fireworks display, as even if they don’t bark or whimper at the noise, it doesn’t mean they're enjoying it. Excessive panting and yawning can sometimes indicate that your dog is stressed.
Becky said: "Make sure you have measures in place to keep your dog indoors if you know that fireworks will be set off nearby, as dogs are prone to bolting in an attempt to seek out safety and can risk injuring themselves or going missing. Make sure dogs have some form of easily readable identification to wear – even in the house.
"They should have at least a collar and tag. In addition, make sure your dog is microchipped so that if they do run away, they have a better chance of being quickly reunited with you."
Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here
READ MORE:
Coronation Street star announces she's pregnant as she shares bump picture
Top ten discontinued chocolate bars we all miss
Emmerdale fans taken aback by warning before show starts
'Big bang' heard on TUI flight after trainee co-pilot's mistake at Manchester Airport
