ALTHOUGH Guide Dogs wants the New Year to begin with a big bang, we are appealing for sensible use of fireworks to avoid frightening dogs.
The festive season is a time of great joy for many, but for guide dogs and their owners, it can be very traumatic.
Whereas partygoers may revel in the loud bangs and explosions, fireworks can be a nightmare for animals.
Many guide dogs are so terrified of the loud noise that they have to be sedated during the festive period. Some are unable to work for days at a time. Worse, some are even forced into early retirement.
Guide dogs occupy a crucial place in the lives of blind or partially-sighted people.
While we would not wish to be party killjoys, we appeal to everyone who's letting off fireworks to act responsibly and be sensitive to the effect that sudden noises can have on animals.
GERALDINE PEACOCK,
The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.
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