In the lead up to Bonfire Night on Sunday 5 November 2023 RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey checked in with Helena Gibbons from Guide Dogs to find out how best to look after our Guide Dogs or pet dogs if they are frightened or stressed when fireworks start going off in the lead up to Bonfire Night and on the night itself.

Toby began by asking Helena why some dogs are fine with the noises that fireworks make when they go off while other dogs seem very frightened and stressed. 

Helena then shared some good advice on how to prepare your Guide Dog or pet dog in the lead up to Bonfire Night before talking about what best to do on the day and night itself. 

Helena and Toby also discussed whether it is best to leave your Guide Dog or pet dog alone if they are getting stressed with all the fireworks going off or whether it is better to be with them and keeping them calm and yourself calm by stroking your dog.

Helena ended by sharing with Toby her top hints  and tips on making Bonfire Night as calm and stress free as possible for your Guide Dog or pet dog. 

There is a wide range of information and advice around Guide Dogs and fireworks on the following pages of the guide Dogs website - 

https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/getting-support/information-and-advice/dog-care-and-welfare/dogs-and-fireworks/

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