An electricity company is taking steps to ensure its work doesn't distress pets.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution, which operates the network in Southampton, is adapting its procedures to ensure a non-threatening experience for customers' pets during home visits.

The company said its engineers and customer-facing staff are highly trained to respect property and prioritise safety.

Now, they will include additional measures when working at homes and businesses where pets are present.

These steps involve approaching pets calmly, avoiding sudden movements, and keeping interaction to a minimum unless otherwise invited.

SSEN has asked its customers to help make visits a more pleasant experience by taking a few simple steps.

These include putting pets in a separate room or safe area where they would feel more comfortable before the engineer or customer advisor arrives.

They also advise communicating any concerns, especially if the pet has specific needs or behaviours, so visiting staff can adjust accordingly.

Allowing the pet to see the visiting worker at a safe distance first to reduce any territorial reaction, and keeping the pet’s favourite treat or toy nearby to help distract and calm them during visits, are also recommended.

Barry Eggleton, SSEN’s occupational health and safety manager said: "At SSEN we know pets are part of the family, because so many of us are pet owners ourselves and we want to make sure that we respect their territory and don’t cause any stress for them during times when our engineers or customer advisors might need to be in homes or gardens to carry out work.

"By introducing these simple, additional measures SSEN is ensuring that its visits are not only safe and efficient, but also respectful of the special bond our customers share with their furry friends."

For everyone’s safety, SSEN advises against encouraging pets to greet visitors directly, even if they are friendly. SSEN Distribution visits thousands of homes each year to ensure a reliable power supply.

The company said it takes pride in carrying out work safely but understands that unexpected visits can sometimes cause anxiety for pets and occasionally their owners too.