Happy Fourth of July everyone!! Being one of our most fun and interactive holidays, it is very important to recognize pet safety this Independence Day. Not everyone realizes how much our little animal friends are affected by the festivity's noisy parties and most of all the big fireworks shows. Many animals find fireworks scary. Unfortunately, these loud fireworks often send animals into a full panic to the point where they accidentally injure themselves. The loud, unexpected whizzes, pops and bangs are often louder than military jets taking off.
If you have a pet that's sensitive to thunder, smoke alarms and vacuum cleaners, then your little furry friends are most likely not going to enjoy the fireworks show. Because pets panic it is important to be prepared and educate yourself on how to keep pets calm during fireworks. Sadly when animals get scared their first instinct is to bolt away and escape and often wind up lost, injured and unfortunately even killed.
But don't fret... There are precautions and ways you can prepare:
-Walk them during daylight hours to avoid times when fireworks are likely to be set off.
-Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound of fireworks.
-Put on some music or TV to mask the fireworks sound.
-Create a quiet space where your dog or cat can feel in control.
-Create some hiding places around your home.
-Microchip your pets in case they get startled and escape outside.
-Consider crating them and partly cover the cages with blankets so an area is sound proofed and hidden but allow another area for the animals to look out.
-Consider bringing your pets indoors.
The best thing you can do for your animals is to be ready for the holiday and to not ignore the possible issues that loud fireworks can create. By preparing in advance before fireworks start, your pets will be able to cope with the noises. So take precautions, keep your animals safe and happy and have a spectacular Fourth of July!!!