Pets can react in many ways to fireworks, finding themselves in a panic experiencing anxiety and stress, and often running away in an attempt to find a calm, quiet place to seek shelter.
The CEO of Nevada Humane Society, Jerleen Bryan shares tips on keeping your pets safe during the July 4th holiday, and says micro-chipping and having I.D. is crucia.
Keeping the TV on, a fan, or calming music can also help. Making sure your pet is in a safe, comfortable and happy place is key.
Bryan, adds "if you know your pet is going to have a difficult time, then plan for that. If you have time to get them in to a veterinarian, maybe you can get some anti-anxiety medications for them. At the very least where in your home are they most comfortable? Where do they feel secure?"
Taking pets to fireworks shows, with large crowds and high volumes of noise can cause your pet extreme fear or attempts to escape and run off.
Check collars and tags, making sure your cat or dog has an I.D. with current contact info. Use calming aids. Talk to your vet about anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers, or medications.
Charlene Choate, a local pet owner, shared her advice.
"I think it's very very important, because some pets freak out at the sound of the fireworks, and dogs will jump fences, or if a gate is left open, they'll take off, and if they're micro-chipped you get them back," she said. "Both of my dogs have an apple air tag, which allows me to know where they are at all times on my phone, under find my phone, and then the QR code here is you scan it shows a picture of the dog and the contact information."
Planning ahead with the proper resources can better prepare you and your pets to get through the 4th of July a bit more peacefully with less anxiety and trauma.
