06/09/2025
On Sunday 7 September, the UK Government will be testing the Emergency Alert system at 3pm. All compatible mobile phones / tablets across the UK will make a loud siren-like sound and vibrate for around 10 seconds. Phones on silent will still sound the alert.
Dogs’ hearing is more sensitive than ours. If your dog is reactive to noise, startles easily or is anxious, here are some things to consider before the test:
- Walk them in advance of the test so they are more relaxed by 3pm. Return home in good time to a safe and comforting environment
- Keep your dog and phone in separate rooms and put the TV or radio on for background noise. Give your dog something to engage their brain such as a lick mat or long lasting non-rawhide chew. Provide reassurance if they need it
- If you are in a public space, keep your dog on the lead. Multiple phones could sound the alert from any direction, which could be disorientating, and initiate their fight or flight response. Others may also take their dog to the same “quiet spot” so be mindful that other dogs in the space may react differently from yours
- If disabling the alert is the best action for your circumstances, find out more from the UK Government: https://www.gov.uk/alerts/opting-out