Dogs Trust Ireland has released very concerning statistics today that reveal 54% of dog owners are already anxious about Halloween this year.
More than two thirds of owners surveyed said their dog has shown signs of firework fear, and 41% of those stated their dog is extremely fearful and will cower, hide or shake when they hear or see fireworks.
Ahead of Halloween, Dogs Trust is advising owners to please be mindful of their dog’s welfare and to keep them indoors if there are fireworks going off.
Halloween can be an incredibly stressful time for our canine companions and sadly many dogs go missing at this time of year as they panic and attempt to escape.
The charity recommends owners walk their dogs before it gets dark, supervise all toilet breaks and to leave their pooches at home with someone they trust if they are going out.
Dogs Trust is also urging the public to ensure their dog wears a collar and tag with their owner’s name and phone number on it.
7-week-old puppies Trixie and Boo at Dogs Trust Ireland. Photograph: ©Fran Veale
Microchip details should be checked to ensure the most up to date contact information is registered with the microchipping database, should any dog be found and scanned for a chip so they can be reunited quickly.
Dawn Kavanagh, Education & Community Manager, advises: “While Halloween can be a fun and exciting time for us, sadly the same cannot be said for dogs. Dog’s hearing is approximately four times more sensitive than our own, so it’s no wonder the sudden pops and bangs are so frightening to them.
“Thankfully, there are lots of things we can do to help our dogs during firework season.
“While some dogs will prefer to hide away in a cozy den, others will seek extra reassurance from their owners, which is completely fine to give.
“Some dogs will be happy to be distracted by treats, while some might go off their food completely, so we recommend feeding them earlier in the day in case this happens.”
Niamh Curran-Kelly, Veterinary and Welfare Manager, continues: “Another interesting fact our survey revealed was that many owners had never discussed their dog’s fear of fireworks with their Vet.
“If you are concerned about your dog’s worries, please book an appointment to discuss this.
“Your Vet will be able to check your dog for any underlying medical conditions which might cause noise sensitivity, and they may be able to prescribe medication to help your dogs’ firework anxiety.”
Dogs Trust is also reminding owners to keep Halloween treats well out of dogs’ reach.
Substances toxic to dogs if ingested include chocolate, raisins, grapes, and the sweetener xylitol, so please keep them well away.
The charity is advising owners to contact their vet immediately if they think their dog has eaten anything they shouldn’t have.