9:02 PM Fri, Jun 30, 2006 | Permalink
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Before the big booms this July 4th, remember to take care of your dog! A reader emailed me to remind me that Fido hates fireworks. The Humane Society of the U-S says shelters across the country often get an influx of "fireworks dogs," and if you're not careful, one of those lost dogs could be YOURS. Make preparations now to prevent heartache later:
--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 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.
Read more here on the HSUS website.
We would put our Chow/Shepherd mix in the laundry room, just before dusk. When the fireworks began in our neighborhood (county,) we would purposely do a bit of laundry, running both the washer and dryer. Their noise would somewhat mask the sound of the fireworks, and would make the evening much calmer for our old boy.
Thank you Lisa for sending out this warning. We get numerous emails the day after a "firework holiday" from people who leave their pets outside during this time only to find out they are gone. ALL pets should be inside to safeguard them from getting lost and from those whose intent is to harm. This is a very scary time for pets. Like Leela, we leave some sort of noise inside the house to mask the noise of the fireworks. We also choose to stay at home to safeguard and comfort when needed. It is our responsibility as pet guardians to look out for them. They are happier and safer inside with us. Not only at this time, but year round.