Ireland's largest dog welfare charity has received a 358% increase in dog owners requesting advice on how to help their pets cope with fireworks

Dogs Trust, Ireland's largest dog welfare charity, has issued some advice on how to keep our furry four-legged friends safe this Halloween.

The charity has said it has received an alarming 358% spike in dog owners asking how to help their pets cope with fireworks.

As canines' hearing is about four times as sensitive as ours, the unpredictable and sudden loud noises of fireworks can be greatly upsetting.

They are something that can cause increased stress and worry for our poor pets.

Head of Operations at Dogs Trust, Karla Dunne, said: “Halloween can be terrifying for some dogs, so we recommend that your dog is well exercised before dark and is fed and given a toilet break before the fireworks begin.

"Most importantly, dogs should be indoors with lots of dog-friendly activities to keep them occupied.

"Some dogs like to hide, so please allow them to stay where they feel safest and make it as cosy as possible for them, even if it’s something as simple as draping a duvet over the area.

"Contrary to popular belief, it is okay to interact calmly with your dog if they come to you for reassurance, especially if you can remain as relaxed as possible as this will in itself provide some comfort.”

Dogs Trust has also put together the following tips and tricks to help ease the anxiety our dogs may be feeling.

• Try to settle your dog before the fireworks start – if your dog is in familiar, safe surroundings it will help them cope with the noise.
• Provide a safe hiding place – at noisy times around Halloween, make sure your dog has somewhere safe to go in their favourite room, perhaps under the table. Close the curtains, turn the lights on, and turn up the volume on your TV or radio to drown out the firework noises. Try throwing a blanket over the table to make them feel more secure.
• Make sure your house and garden are secure during the fireworks as fear may make your dog try to escape. Make sure your dog's microchip details are up to date too, just in case they do manage to get out.
• Be extra careful when opening the door as your dog may try to escape; if possible, try to ensure there is another closed door between your dog and your front door and get in the habit of clipping on your dog’s lead before opening the front door.