Spectacular fireworks are a highlight of most independence day celebrations, however many pets are extremely frightened by Fourth of July activities. The loud pops and bangs of fireworks from miles around can cause dogs and cats to panic and try to escape. Animal shelters across the country are always flooded with panicked calls from people searching for their lost pets as well as good samaritans that have found lost pets.
Keep your pets safely inside, especially if you aren't going to be home. If you're reluctant, keep in mind that it's far better to have to clean up a small “accident” than to spend a sad weekend looking for a runaway. Here is a list of tips to help keep your pets safe:
- If you plan to watch fireworks away from home, leave your pet behind in a quiet, escape-proof room. Also, make sure that anything that can be destroyed or swallowed is out of reach in case they become frightened. Your safest bet is a cool, well-ventilated room without windows or a crate if that’s what your pet is used to.
- Leave a TV or radio on at a regular volume to calm your pet and help drown out other noises. Turning on fan on might also help.
- Never leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects--even death--in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for your pet to escape or be stolen.
- Make sure your dog or cat is wearing an ID tag with a current phone number in case they get lost. Having your pet micro-chipped is added insurance in case the collar comes off.
- If you will be outside with your pet, be sure to have a leash--and make sure that leash or carrier are secure!
- If you plan on an extended trip for the independence holiday, find a kennel that you can trust or consider hiring a professional pet sitter to stay with your pet, even if you're just out for the night celebrating. If you have friends or relatives your pet can stay with, even better.
- If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder or you have animals that live strictly outside (cows, chickens, pigs, horses etc), consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.
- Consider using Rescue Remedy for Pets, a natural liquid stress reducer that can be mixed in with your pet's food/water or dropped directly into the mouth. Also, ginseng is an herb that has been shown to protect against the effects of stress in pets and an ingredient in various remedies that you can purchase at pet supply stores or online. Always check with your vet before administering.
Have a safe and happy holiday!
Local Green Circle, July, 2009