The fifth of July is the busiest day of the year for many animal shelters, as many dogs panic due to the loud bangs from fireworks celebrations, run off, and get lost. Managing editor Tami Roleff has some tips on how to keep your dog safe this Fourth of July…
Many dogs are terrified of the noise from fireworks, whether they are the professional fireworks or just bottle rockets being shot off down the street. To keep your dog safe, don’t bring it to fireworks celebrations and don’t leave it out in the yard when fireworks are going off; bring it inside your house or garage. Have your dog properly identified, ideally with a microchip and a collar with ID tags, or at least, a collar and tags. Dogs that are crate trained may feel safer in their crate; cover it with a blanket. Place a fan nearby to provide white noise to help mask the sounds of fireworks. Never shoot off fireworks around pets; besides scaring them with the loud noises, the fireworks could cause burns or trauma to the face or paws. Other items that are harmful to pets include glow jewelry and insect repellent not designed for animals (including citronella).
