The Fourth of July is coming up and everyone is looking forward to a long weekend of fun and fireworks. Unfortunately, sometimes we forget what’s enjoyable for us isn’t for our four-legged pals and without proper precautions this can lead to tragedy.
The HSUS site shares the sad story of the Moores’ family. They had gone out for a few hours and their dog, D.O.G., panicked because of the fireworks. Somehow she opened the sliding glass door and got out of the house. D.O.G. then escaped the yard and ultimately ended up getting hit and killed by a car.
If you prepare before the festivities begin you can prevent a tragedy like the Moores experienced from happening to you.
Fortunately, preventing pet problems on Independence Day is possible by simply planning ahead and taking some basic precautions.
“With a little bit of planning and forethought, you can enjoy the excitement of the Fourth of July and know that your animal companion is safe, sound, and enjoying a little peace and quiet,” said Nancy Peterson, an issues specialist with The Humane Society if the United States.
To protect your pet on the Fourth of July, take these precautions:
* Resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays.
* Do not 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.
* 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.
* If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.
* 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.
* Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. 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.
* If you plan to go away for the holiday weekend, read our information on Caring for Pets When You Travel.
Please keep these precautions in mind as you prepare for the weekend, we want everyone to enjoy the holiday. Hope you have a safe and happy 4th of July!
