NOVEMBER 5 is still some time away, but we've already had a number of owners contact us requesting sedatives -- for their pets that is.

Pets can become traumatized by the loud and confusing noise of fireworks, or could even be injured by hot debris from rockets, Catherine wheels or bangers. As their ears are more sensitive than ours, explosions can be very frightening, even damaging.

Any pet that's upset by fireworks will usually panic -- they will fret and try to find somewhere to hide, even run away and will generally becoming confused, disoriented, exhausted and perhaps lost.

Animal behaviourists tell us that dogs that are afraid of loud noises are best treated by retraining them and slowly de-sensitising them to the sounds that they find frightening. Your vet can help you plan this sort of treatment, although it does require time and commitment.

Sedatives can be used to alleviate anxiety on occasions such as bonfire night, but they should only be administered under strict veterinary supervision. You'll need to take your pet in beforehand for a consultation to check he's healthy. If you find fireworks upset your pet, leave him or her in the house and ensure that someone stays in to keep them company. Pets and fireworks really don't mix -- so remember, remember, take extra care of your pets on the 5th of November. Questions and answers Q: One night last year we acquired a stray English Bull Terrier cross. He was so obedient and gentle, we decided not to put him through the trauma of the dog's home because we felt sure his owners would claim him within a few days.

Despite our best efforts to find them, he is still with our family and has a firm place in our hearts. He is entirely trustworthy with people, and is always delighted to see children and toddlers or babies in prams.

However, a while ago, he was attacked by another, very boisterous dog, and since then has become very aggressive in canine company. He's determined to 'get in first' and has taken a liking to Yorkshire Terriers. It's got so bad that I can't trust him off the lead -- I'm afraid he might kill something. Can you help?

First of all, you need to make sure that your dog is not a danger to other dogs or humans when you take him out for walks. Make sure he's wearing a soft muzzle or a Mikki muzzle, and that he's restrained on a suitable collar or harness (not choker chain), with a long line attached. An extendable flexi lead would be best.

Depending on the circumstances, it may be time to consider neutering -- apart from reducing the likelihood of unwanted puppies in the locality, it can make a male dog more passive in some cases.

You really need to re-introduce your dog to other dogs carefully and gradually, over a period of weeks. Ask a friend to help out, or contact your vet for details of local pet behaviourists, who'll almost certainly be able to assist with a calm 'test' dog. When your dog is about to pounce, or starts barking at the 'test' dog, distract him by dropping something like a can filled with stones. Then reward him when he is calm. You should notice a marked difference over a period of a few weeks. Good Luck! If you have any pet questions you would like answered, send them to Doerte Boehle,

Companion Care Veterinary Surgery, Pets At Home, Middlebrook Retail Park, Middlebrook, Bolton, BL6 6JA.