Should Firework use by public be banned?

[Velvetee]

Yes I think so. It's well after 11pm and the inconsiderate toss pots are still letting off fireworks. I feel sorry for people with pets, poor animals must be quivering on the brink of madness.

I'm not trying to be a killjoy, but you can guarantee these fireworks will continue to be used well into January. I feel only people who are running organised displays should be allowed to purchase, what effectively are explosives and organisers should have to apply for a license before they can hold a display.

[dustinmyeye]

couldnt agree more, our dog has been a nervous wreck for the past week and they are still going strong. i hate walking about outside at this time of year, because there are too many idiots walking around that would throw a banger at you as soon as look at you.

[Velvetee]

Do you have to give your dog sedatives Dustin? My partner's mother has her two dogs sedated from the 4th November.

[Gormless]

I agree with you, but oddly there have been fewer fireworks this year than ever before. More gunshots, but the torrential rain is keeping the firework hooligans indoors.

[Jugglering]

Yep, totally agree Velvetee... my two girls have had to be locked indoors for over a week now and they are going beserk ! I did let Wee Thug out earlier on this evening but she hurtled back like a demented maniac when next door but one decided to let rip a whole raft of fireworks. I have had to give them sedation for the whole week which cannot be good for any animal. Why do the fireworks have to make such a racket ?

[Velvetee]

Yes Rick, I would like to know how you've taught your dog to not be afraid? My soon to be mother inlaw would welcome any advice too.

[Gormless]

In Basildon they fire rockets horizontally in the hope of slaughtering a few neighbours.

[Ethel]

Any dog can be trained not to be frightened of fireworks and other loud noises - it takes time and patience but can be done.

I enjoy bonfire night and love fireworks. It's only for a few weeks a year, unlike the barking of my neighbours' dogs which carries on all year round.

Live and let live.

Sound advice here for dog owners and fireworks

http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/index.php?id=2065

[pips1]

WHAT? i DIDN'T UNDERSTAND A WORD OF THAT! Can you come and train my cat cos he is terrified, has been for a week now and he is getting old. I feel for him so much.

[Jugglering]

But my cats don't bark at anyone.. nor do they mess in anyone else's garden before anyone blames me for that. I now have two terrified bundles of fur which is not pleasant, I can assure you !

[pips1]

That wasn't aimed at you Ethel, sorry.

[Ethel]

Juggerling - how were I to know you were talking about cats?

[mrs.chappie]

I would love to see fireworks in controlled displays only.

Frightened pets aside, they are downright dangerous and cause many problems, both intentionally and unintentionally.

[Ethel]

Cats respond to behaviour therapy as well as dogs:

To help your pet become accustomed to thunder and other loud noises, you can try some behaviour modification. This technique involves playing a recording of thunder at very low levels. Use the time to reassure your pet that everything is fine. Gradually increase the volume slowly over time, as your pet is able to handle the sounds without getting stressed. Many stores carry "relaxation" types of music, and I have seen several rain/thunderstorm CDs available. This technique does require time and patience for it to be effective. Start slow, and do short sessions only at first. Praising the pet for remaining calm is important. Be careful not to overdo praising, you want the pet to feel that this is "situation normal" as much as possible.