Dog so scared of fireworks he ran into path of car

A group of vets is calling for fireworks to be banned from public sale.

They are urging the government to change the law amid concern that pets are being put at risk, especially around bonfire night.

Their calls come in the wake of Sainsbury's decision to stop selling fireworks from all of its 2,300 stores.

In a poll carried out by UK-wide Vets Now, 96% of more than 7,000 respondents said they would support tighter controls on fireworks while 73% said their pets were scared of the noise they create.

Welsh terrier Taffy was so petrified of the loud bangs from rockets he darted away from his owners onto a busy road.

Owner Robert Lomas, from Old Trafford, said the dog was dragged under a car and needed emergency veterinary treatment at the Manchester branch of Vets Now to survive the ordeal.

  • Watch Ralph Blunsom's report here

  • House prep

There are some simple things you can do in your house that will help make your dog feel more comfortable while there are fireworks going off. Creating a safe place inside your home can be an ideal place for your dog to hide from fireworks. Almost 50% of dog owners build a safe haven for their dog to escape to during fireworks – using blankets and pillows can be a great way to create a den. Over 75% even choose to close the curtains, windows and doors to further shelter their pet from the loud noises and bright flashes of lights.

  • Sound

The sudden bang of fireworks can be extremely terrifying for your dog, so playing other sounds can be a great way to mask the noise of the bangs. Nearly 80% of dog owners turn on the TV or radio to help drown out the sounds of the fireworks, which will help distract your dog from the noise outside.

  • Walking

When walking your dog during fireworks season, perhaps consider walking them earlier in the day. Walking before dusk is ideal to make sure your dog is comfortable when going outside.

Try to tire your dog out earlier on in the day, so they’ll be more likely to fall asleep before fireworks are set off. Regardless of the time you’re out walking, make sure you walk your dog on a load and they are microchipped.

  • Consider an alternative

If you have tried everything you can to help your cope with fireworks and they are still stressed, then it may be time to reach out to your vet for advice in the first instance, as they will be able to provide the best course of action.

Gemma Cunningham, Campaign and Communications Manager at Lintbells, said: