Did you know that the day after the 4th of July is one of the busiest days for dog shelters? Can you take a guess as to why?
So many of my clients have stories of their dog running away, or getting hit by a car on the fourth of July. Here are a few tips for fireworks safety.
Contain your Dog
This may seem common sense, but most people want their dogs out and about with them while they have fun with the family. While fireworks may be exciting and fun for humans, dogs do not see them that way.
Pets are sometimes terrified of the whizzes, bangs and screeches that fireworks make. They panic and flee into the night, ending up lost, injured or killed.
The best way to contain your pet is in a crate. This way you are free to move in and out of the house during the evening without worrying if your pet will escape if you leave the door open.
Properly Identify Your Pet
Make sure your pet has proper identification on. At bare minimum they should have a collar with tags on, but even better is having them microchipped. That way, if one of the little ones in your home lets the dog out they can be identified if and when they are picked up by animal control.
Or hopefully, a kind stranger will see them and be able to give you a call to come retrieve your furry friend.
Keep Them Away From Chemicals
Last but not least is one that we might forget. We as humans use A LOT of chemicals. From lighter fluid and matches, to citronella candles and glow sticks…please make sure that your dog is safe around the items that you are using.
If your dog is not afraid of fireworks and you have them with you outside, please keep them to a designated chemical-free area. We want to avoid a trip to the vet as well as a trip to the shelter.
Thanks for reading everyone, and have a SAFE and HAPPY 4th of July! And for those of you in Utah…a 24th of July as well!
