Keep me safe!
Do not forget about your pets during 4th of July
Keep your dogs and cats safe during this Independence Day week.
Independence Day and the weeks afterward are some of the most stressful for dogs, cats, and other animals due to all the loud noises before, during, and after the Independence Day celebrations.
Fireworks are extremely scary and stressful for animals and they will escape and try to hide from all the noises. The day after Thursday and for the next couple of weeks is one of the busiest times for the Porterville Animal Shelter and it's sad to see all the scared dogs that come in according to the staff.
It's important to microchip your pet. If your pet gets out and is found by Porterville Animal Control, the pet is scanned for a microchip. The microchip identifies who the pet is registered to, so it's much easier and quicker to reunite the pet with their owner than if your pet doesn't have a microchip.
FOURTH OF JULY SPECIAL From now till Thursday Porterville Animal Control will be offering $10 microchipping at its facility 23611 Rd. 196, Lindsay 93247. You don't need an appointment. Hours of operation are Mondayfriday noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The facility is closed on Sunday. TIPS TO KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE 1. Try to keep your dog or cats inside. Preferably in an isolated room.
2. Exercise your dog early in the day - they'll be easier to handle and calmer overall.
3. During fireworks, keep your dog or cats in a comfortable room. Turn on the radio or television for familiar noise.
4. Try using a Thundershirt — an anxiety treatment jacket.
5. Porterville requires dogs to be registered and licensed, so it's easy to reconnect if they get lost. Microchips are helpful as well. Have an ID on your pet at all times and have a current photo on hand.
If you choose to take your dog outside, follow these precautions: 1. Keep dogs away from fire. 2. Watch for people dropping garbage and bones.
3. Keep your dog cool. Make sure they have access to water.
4. Be mindful of food that's sitting out. Some food is deadly for dogs.
5. If your dog runs away, call the police and animal control immediately.
If you are planning to leave out of town for the Independence Day holiday, don't leave your pets at home alome. This is a confusing and scary time for them and they need to be indoors where they can feel safe. If you can't take them with you, please leave them with a responsible family member or friend who will keep them indoors. You can also look into boarding facilities, but do your research first.
PLAN AHEAD
If your dog has anxiety during Independence Day please contact your local veterinarian ahead of time for advice on possible anxiety medication. They will not prescribe medication without your dog being seen as a client. For further inquiries and questions regarding this topic please contact a veterinarian that can answer any questions you might have.