How to keep pets safe during Fourth of July fireworks
As the country gears up for its 241st birthday celebration, pet owners nationwide are on alert. More pets go missing over the Fourth of July weekend than any other time of year, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. But a few preventative measures can help keep your pet safe and happy during the family-friendly holiday.
Whether staying in or traveling far, you can turn these routine steps into a yearly tradition as dependable as holiday sparklers and apple pie.
Don’t bring pets to f ireworks displays.
Fireworks shows are a perfect storm for animals: loud, bright, crowded and most often in an unfamiliar place. Veterinarians recommend that you resist the urge and keep pets away from the lights display. The sights and sounds can simulate severe storm conditions, transforming a joyous celebration for the family into a nightmare for man’s best friend.
Keep pets indoors — ideally in a quiet, isolated room with no windows.
Your pet has the lowest likelihood of running away or experiencing distress in his favorite room at home. Keeping noise and flashing lights at bay will help ease anxiety, suggests the American Veterinary Medical Association. Windowless rooms such as bathrooms or basements help muffle sound and keep out light.
Play background noise to f ight the blast of f ireworks.
Soothing sounds from a TV, radio or fan can help soothe your pet. You can also try playing recorded noises from fireworks or similar explosions in the days before July 4 to acclimate your pet before the holiday.
If you must be outdoors with your pet, use a leash or a carrier.
Do not leave the animal alone, as even a well-behaved pet can act out or try to escape under unusual stress from noise, heat, smoke or light. Playing with your pet on a leash can help keep him calm during a stress-inducing fireworks show.
Consider asking a veterinarian for a pet tranquilizer.
If you know your pet is prone to disproportionate anxiety that could jeopardize your Fourth of July plans, consider asking a veterinarian for a pet tranquilizer or sedative. But be warned: Anxietyreducers have side effects, according to PetMD, so ask your veterinarian before giving your pup any new medication.
Ease anxiety with quality time.
Normal comforting tactics can help keep your pet calm. Petting, playing, walking, soothing and distracting can keep your pet from acting out. Chew toys, treats, and plenty of water for panting dogs will help mitigate a potential meltdown. Just like people, pets thrive with a little help from their friends.
Make sure your pet has proper identif ication listing your name, current phone and address.
There’s never a bad time to improve your pet’s chance of sticking around. In the unfortunate case that your pet escapes, proper identification might be his only ticket home. Make sure his collar lists a responsive, reliable way to find you. Also consider planting a GPS-acces- sible microchip in your pet in case of an emergency, recommends the Metro Denver Animal Welfare Alliance.
Conf irm that your yard is safe and secure for pets.
Use the holiday to double-check for holes, fencing gaps and other ways your pet could escape under the cover of darkness and noise.
Make sure to have a photo of your pet, just in case.
Nowadays, pet searchers often take to social media. A good picture will allow friends online to share the story and expand the reach of possible rescuers.
Found a lost animal? Take it to your local animal shelter.
Check Petfinder to locate an animal shelter or rescue groups. Call your local animal shelter to schedule a drop-off.