As 5^th November approaches staff at Jerry Green Dog Rescue have some words of wisdom for dog owners on bonfire night.

While revellers munch toffee apples, set off fireworks and gather around the bonfire, the team at Jerry Green Dog Rescue will be taking care of rescue dogs during this notoriously noisy night.

Jenny Harris, Fundraiser at Jerry Green Dog Rescue, said: “Unfortunately dogs, cats and other pets can find the loud noises and flashing lights that accompany bonfire and firework displays very frightening.

“But if you prepare early, then there is no reason why you and your pet can’t enjoy the night.”

The Jerry Green kennel welfare team will be doing all they can to help keep the rescue centre residents as comfortable as possible and they have some top tips to help you achieve the same at home.

Top Tips
• Avoid walking your dog after dark in the days leading up to and following the 5th November.
• Close curtains and turn on televisions, radios and lights around the house to help mask the sound and flashes of light from fireworks.
• If possible, stay at home with your dog, so you can reassure them if necessary.
• Set up a safe area (also known as a safe haven) so your dog has somewhere to go when they feel worried. A safe haven is usually a comfortable bed or covered crate where the dog receives lots of pleasant surprises, such as their favourite toys, treats and chews.
• Although it seems counter-intuitive, try not to give your dog too much attention when they are frightened as this can accidentally encourage the behaviour rather than reassure them.

For owners of dogs who suffer from noise fears and phobias, there are products available which may help alleviate the problem in the long run.

Sound CDs can be used to help desensitise dogs to the noises they are fearful of, but it is advisable to get a qualified behaviourist involved to help with the initial stages of training.

Also available are anxiety wraps and thunder shirts which fit snugly around the dog’s torso. These shirts aim to help dogs cope with loud noises and other stressors; however, such products are not necessarily effective in all individuals.

Dog appeasing pheromones (DAP) are products which come in three different forms: a collar, a diffuser and a spray. The collar is useful as it is in contact with the dog at all times, both inside and outside on the home, while the diffuser and spray can be used in specific areas such as the safe haven.

DAPs are an artificial version of the pheromone given off by a mother dog, which helps to calm and reassure her puppies. The theory behind using these pheromones is that it can potentially reduce anxiety which can be helpful for managing dogs with noise sensitivities.

Additional advice can be sought from your veterinary practice or by contacting your local Jerry Green Dog Rescue centre, the details for which can be found via the website: www.jerrygreendogs.org.uk

Ends

Notes to editors:
• Jerry Green Dog Rescue was founded in 1961 in Broughton, Lincolnshire and is now one of the UK’s largest dog rescue charities.
• Jerry Green Dog Rescue has a caring ethos which puts the dogs in its care at the centre of everything it does. It also operates a policy whereby prospective adopters are introduced to dogs in a neutral environment away from the kennel, resulting in less stress for the dog and increasing the chances of permanent homes being found.
• The adoption process at Jerry Green Dog Rescue involves a number of introductory visits and the rehoming team provide pre and post adoption support to ensure the move to the dog’s new home is as smooth as possible.
• The charity receives no Government or National Lottery funding. This means it is dependent on the generosity of public and corporate donors/sponsors.

For media information please contact:
Kerri Saxby
Shooting Star
01522 528540
kerri@weareshootingstar.co.uk
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