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 weekend…
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 leave it out in the yard when fireworks are going off; bring it inside your house or garage. Set up a nice quiet spot in a windowless room, if possible, or keep them in a carrier or kennel. Even if you think your yard is secured, a frightened dog will find a way to escape and a tied up dog may strangle themselves trying to get away.
Leave the TV or radio on to distract them. Soothing noise may help keep pets calm.
If your dog or cat is especially noise sensitive, consider having someone stay home with them, take them to a boarding facility, or discuss sedatives with your veterinarian.
Keep your pet crated, to ensure your pets stay safe at home. Provide them with activities and toys to pass the time and leave a radio on low. You can cover the crate with a sheet for more security.
Make sure your dog is wearing a current license tag and, if your pet is microchipped, the microchip information is up to date and current. A license tag is your dog’s ticket home. The Animal Shelter can quickly reunite lost pets with their families if the animals are wearing a license and microchipped. Remember, have an I.D. tag on your cat as well.
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).
If after taking all the precautions and your cat or dog runs away, visit your local animal shelter and file a lost animal report. While the shelters will be closed on July 4, they will resume normal business hours on July 5. The Yucca Valley Animal Shelter is open Tuesday – Saturday, from noon to 5 p.m. If your dog or cat is not at the shelter immediately, keep checking back every few days, as it may take several days for your pet to be located and arrive at the shelter. Other places to check for a missing pet are on Facebook, ‘Missing Pets of the Morongo Basin’ and the Cruisin’ Critter Report on the Z107.7 website.
Should you need the services of field Animal Control Officers, they are on duty 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Field Animal Control Officers are available to respond to emergencies after normal business hours, and on week-ends and holidays, by contacting the San Bernardino County Sheriff Department at 760-365-2364. During normal business hours (Monday – Friday) Yucca Valley Animal Control may be reached at 760-365-1807.
If you reside outside of the town limits and need the assistance of an Animal Control Officer, San Bernardino County Animal Care and Control can be reached at 1-800-472-5609 24 hours a day/7 days a week.
