THE owner of a dog traumatised by fireworks would like to see a restriction on the times they are let off and is urging others to sign a petition.

There is nothing Paula Jones, from Chawson Farm, can do to settle her terrified four-year-old Parson Jack Russell terrier called Bobby who pants and quivers when he hears the loud bangs.

Ms Jones said she is not a "killjoy" but would like tighter control on when and where they are allowed to be set off so pet owners can be better prepared.

The 51-year-old is part of the Facebook group Fireworks -- FAB Campaign Group which has set up a Government petition entitled Restrict the Use of Fireworks to Reduce Stress and Fear in Animals and Pets.

It has already been signed by almost 60,000 people.

They are worried not only about the stress fireworks calls to animals but also injuries to pets and livestock when they are not used properly.

"We're not killjoys, we have enjoyed fireworks as well but when you see the serious injuries to animals caused by fireworks by idiots messing about with them there needs to be much more regulation.

"We seem to be in firework season at the moment and it lasts for several months and they are set off at all hours.

"They seem to be getting louder too.

"Bobby was fine with fireworks until someone set off loud banger type ones nearby and now he gets into such distress.

"When you see his stress it is really upsetting because there is nothing you can do for him and they seem to last an eternity."

Bobby gets so distressed that Ms Jones has to drive around with him to calm him down or stay up with him through the night until he has settled.

The petition states: "Fireworks now occur at all times of the day and evening for many weeks during the autumn and winter.

"Pet and animal owners struggle to keep their companion animals safe during this extended period.

"We call for fireworks use by the general public to be permitted on traditional celebration dates only."

Anyone wishing to sign should log on to petition.parliament.uk/petitions/109702.