FIREWORKS are ruining the lives of guide dogs who are left traumatised and unable to work, according to the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Worcester alone has 37 registered blind people who depend on guide dogs to enable them to lead independent lives but the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association says irresponsible firework users could be putting the animals at risk.

"Every New Year, and at other times, guide dogs and other working dogs are forced to retire traumatised by the irresponsible use of fireworks," said the association's Matt Grainger.

"Others have to be sedated and some even retrained leaving their owners without mobility for weeks at a time. Over recent years, as fireworks have become more widespread, the problem has escalated."

The association, which trains guide dogs for blind people in Worcestershire at its Leamington Spa centre, is now calling for the licensing of firework retailers and organised public fireworks displays and the introduction of a range of laws to limit firework use.

A petition being run by the association also calls for a limit to noise levels and the specification of a limited number of dates around which fireworks can be sold. The association is also urging MPs to consider introducing a private members' bill to bring these measures into force.

One case to illustrate the problem was a dog who had to be retired after a gang of youths aimed a firework directly at the dog's face which terrified and injured him.

His fear of any bang increased so much that his owner was unable to take him anywhere. Even a train door slamming was enough to terrify the dog and travelling was impossible.

Anyone wanting to support the campaign can sign the petition online at www.guidedogs.co.uk or by contacting Matt Grainger at Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, Hillfields, Burghfield Common, RG7 3YG.