AS fireworks begin to fill the night once more South Yorkshire Police have put a warning out to dog owners in the area as they prepare to see a rise in pet attacks.
Last year, between October 28 and November 8, police received 126 reports of dangerous dogs – of those reports, 34 involved people being seriously injured.
This year there have already been multiple people in Barnsley injured from dog attacks, with two children – a nine-year-old boy and two-year-old girl from Bolton-upon-Dearne – left seriously injured following an incident in June.
Police have been seeing an ‘unprecedented’ rise in these types of attacks, which they fear will only get worse as Bonfire Night on Tuesday approaches.
Due to the loud noises fireworks produce, dogs can believe they are under threat, triggering a flight-or-fight response as they attempt to run away or lash out at anyone nearby.
Even usually calm pets can have unprecedented responses to the sudden noises and police have put out a series of tips to help owners over the coming week.
These include playing calming music, closing windows and curtains to muffle the sound, changing feeding routines so they don’t have to go out during peak firework hours and even discussing medical options with a vet.
Sergeant Matt Duffy said: “We are continuing to see children bitten by dogs across South Yorkshire.
“We are working hard to reduce the risk from dangerous dogs to our communities, but we need your help.
“You know your family, you know your dog. As we approach a time of year where things are slightly different, people are in costumes and you may have more visitors to your home, please take action.
“Also, please remember that when a dog has been exposed to stress or anxiety, it may take a few days for the effects to end.
“It is important you are vigilant and provide your dog with a safe space.”
