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Havant vet reveals what really happens to your dog when a firework goes BANG
Veterinary advice says dogs hear fireworks at higher frequencies and may show trembling, hiding or other subtle fear signs, with some recovering slowly.
Ahead of Bonfire Night on Thursday, November 5, Hannah Gardiner, head vet at Beaumont Veterinary Centre in Headington, released advice to help dog owners manage firework-related distress.
Dogs perceive sounds from around four times further away than humans, making fireworks particularly overwhelming; experts emphasize fearful reactions are genuine physiological responses rather than pets simply "making a fuss."
Factors including genetics, age, and health influence responses, with one study on Standard Poodles estimating genomic heritability for firework fear at 28%; pain can also heighten noise sensitivity.
Owners can mitigate distress by creating a safe retreat, closing curtains to reduce flashes, and providing background noise while keeping pets indoors during displays.
Research involving 1,225 dogs found that while most recover quickly, 12% take up to a week and more than 3% take months, so owners should consult veterinarians for long-term support.