Publisher's Paw

Keeping your Pet Safe on the Fourth of July

28th June, 2010 - Posted by Heather Davis - No Comments

The Humane Society of the United States reminds people that pets can become distressed by the additional noise and commotion involved with the Independence Day holiday.

In fact, animal shelters across the country are accustomed to receiving “July 4th” dogs—dogs who run off during fireworks celebrations and are rescued by animal control officers or good Samaritans who take them to the safety of a local shelter.

Fortunately, you can prevent pet problems on Independence Day simply by planning ahead and taking some basic precautions:

Leave them at home

First, resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays. They can be disorienting and frightening to pets, even those used to going places with their people.

Don’t 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 be stolen.

Give them shelter

Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you’ve removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him company while you’re attending Fourth of July picnics, parades and other celebrations.

Keep it quiet

If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4 for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.

Pay attention

Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn’t leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.

Tag it

Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Unknown animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.

“Pets are family members, and it’s understandable that people want to include them in their holiday plans,” said Leighann McCollum, state director of Tennessee for The HSUS. “However, most pets will be more comfortable staying at home. Spare our furry friends the stress of fireworks, crowds and fanfare on the Fourth of July, and for everyone, we wish a safe and fun Independence Day.”

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation’s largest animal protection organization — backed by 11 million Americans, or one of every 28. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the Web at humanesociety.org.