Our new poll ahead of Bonfire Night suggests that more than a quarter of working guide dogs have a significant negative reaction to fireworks.
In an online poll of 126 guide dog owners, 26% reported that their guide dogs show signs of fear and distress when hearing fireworks, with a range of reactions such as trembling, pacing, panting or barking. A further 12% of owners stated that their guide dogs are noticeably uncomfortable when fireworks are going off nearby.
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.
“We can’t go out when there are fireworks on. We were caught out last year in Manchester while visiting family. We left early at 1pm, but the train broke down, so we were stuck for hours. By the time we got back, it was already dark. It was awful. Eddie was trying to hide in shop doorways and wouldn’t walk. He was still so frightened the next day. He didn’t want to go out, didn’t want to eat.
“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.”
Time to prepare
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.
Tim Stafford, Director of Canine Affairs at Guide Dogs said: “We socialise our guide dog puppies consistently from a very early age to all sorts of noises, including recordings of fireworks, to try and ensure they grow into confident adults.
“For the most part this is successful, as the majority of guide dogs do not react to fireworks. A significant proportion still find them incredibly distressing however, and this can impact a guide dog owner’s independence and mobility.
“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 has lots of tips and advice for dog owners about fireworks at guidedogs.org.uk/fireworks
