Some Tips To Make Sure Your Pets Don’t Freak Out over Fireworks

Photo by PoPville flickr user Wayan Vota

From the Humane Rescue Alliance:

“Fourth of July fireworks are a celebration of our nation’s heritage as we salute the founding of our country with friends and family. But not every member of the family is in on the celebration. Alexandra Dilley, Director of Behavior & Training at the Humane Rescue Alliance offers the following suggestions for pet owners and guardians to consider:

· The safest place for your pet is at home, not in a crowded, unfamiliar and noisy place. The combination of too many people and loud fireworks could make your pet panic and desperately seek shelter. Locking them in the car is also not an option; your pet may suffer heat stroke.

· Keep pets indoors with window shades and curtains closed. Turn on a television, radio, white noise machine and/or play “calming” music for your pets. Hours of calming music can be found on several YouTube channels.

· Create a safe place in the home for your cat or dog to hide. For example, open a closet door and put in a pet bed, creating an enclosed space with no windows.

· Make sure your animals are wearing ID tags on their collars with up-to-date contact information. If your pet is micro chipped, double check that your information is current. If your animal does escape, file a lost report with your local Animal Care and Control.

· Shut all door and windows. Panicked animals can easily break through screens. Dogs can often open doors by jumping when scared, especially doors with lever-type handles. Secure doors with a bolt lock or chain latch.

· If your animal is fearful of thunderstorms, it is likely he/she will be fearful of fireworks. Consult your veterinarian for medication that may ease your pet’s anxiety.”