How to keep your pets safe, calm on July 4th
Published 4:00 pm Thursday, July 2, 2015
The days surrounding the Fourth of July can be an endless series of explosions, piercing whistles, bright lights, shouts and confusion. To your pet, the whole world seems to be under attack.
Some dogs become so panicked they chew through doors, crates, fences, even break windows to escape, according to the Humane Society. Cats often hide in their terror, and can disappear for days or weeks.
“Fireworks and pets don’t mix,” said Jim Mallick, owner of Simply Paws in Federal Way. “Some dogs are so terrified of fireworks they shake uncontrollably. Part of the reason is that the loud noise they make is unpredictable, unlike thunderstorms whose arrival can be felt by the pets in a drop in atmospheric pressure. Also the smell of fireworks can be very unsettling.”
As a result, Mallick said the days after the holiday are typically the biggest days of the year for many shelters as so many pets run away from their homes. To minimize your pet’s stress this holiday, Simply Paws and the Humane Society recommends you take the following steps:
• Keep your pets inside in the days before, during and after the Fourth of July. Close all windows, doors and curtains. Remove anything that may harm your pet if he becomes frantic. Do not chain your pet or leave unattended in the yard. Walk your dogs early in the morning and if they need to go outside, keep them on a leash.
• Have some cozy blankets for your pets to lie on and a bowl of fresh water. Give your pet toys to divert him or her, such as Kong toys with frozen treats and food puzzle toys. Put a radio or TV in the room to provide some white noise. There are also several products designed to help pets through stressful situations, including the Thundershirt, a coat that swaddles dogs with a gentle pressure that comforts them.
• Be calm and matter of fact about fireworks. Dogs are less reactive to situations than people, Mallick said.
• Do not leave your pet in the car.
• While you are at home, consider leaving the family dog closed in one room while you celebrate. This prevents your dog from chasing fireworks, escaping through open gates or doors, or running off in a panic.
• Cats especially need to be kept safely indoors, preferably in one room. Provide a litter box, food and water, and your cat will be content for a few days until the chaos subsides.
• If you know your dog reacts fearfully to fireworks, consult your veterinarian. A mild sedative may be prescribed.
• Make sure that your pet is wearing current identification that includes the pet’s name and the owner’s telephone number. If your pet does escape, check the shelter every day. If you find a pet running loose and can’t locate the owner, bring it to the shelter as soon as possible.
For more information, contact Simply Paws at 253-839-PAWS (7297) or the Humane Society at 253-383-2733.
