FIREWORKS festivities are set to go off with a bang over the next few weeks. While this is enjoyable for people, it can be distressing for many dogs. At Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, we find ourselves taking in traumatised dogs which have run away from their homes at this time of year.

Sadly some owners cannot be traced. We urge owners to prepare their routine around Firework Night and during Diwali to try to minimise the trauma on their poor pets and ensure their dogs do not end up straying through fear.

Make sure you are prepared throughout the fireworks season. If you’re organising a fireworks display please consider your neighbour’s pets.

A bit of forward planning can go a long way to make life less stressful for pets at this time of year.

For more advice please visit: www.dogstrust.org.uk/az/f/fireworks/

PAULA BOYDEN

Dogs Trust Veterinary Director

Wakley Street

London