Sparky: While we are all for celebrating Independance Day, you have to understand something about us furry folk.
Denver: We typically are fearful of loud noises. While some of us don't mind, you'd be surprised at how many of us do.
S: And sometimes, it can frighten us even if it never has before.
D: I read a sad story on the Humane Society of the United States website about a dog who was only home alone for 4 hours while her family was out watching fireworks.
S: Oh yeah? What happened?
D: She had an accident on the living room floor, managed to open the sliding glass door, dug a hole under the fence, and escaped.
S: Did they find her?
D: They did, but unfortunately she was fearful and looking for her owners and was hit by a car on a road she was often walked on.
S: How terrible! You have to remember that even if a dog isn't normally afraid of thunder or other loud noises, they can panic from the cumulative effects of the fireworks, the excited voices outside, and being left alone inside the house.
D: The website said that animal shelters across the country are accustomed to receiving "July 4th" dogs—dogs who run off during fireworks celebrations and are rescued by animal control officers or good samaritans who take them to the safety of a local shelter.
S: It's sad, but true. Here are some tips to keeping your dog safe on Independance Day!
- Do not leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects—even death—in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.
- Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you've removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him company while you're attending Fourth of July picnics, parades, and other celebrations.
- If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.
- Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.
- Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.
D: Great tips, Sparks! And if you sincerely want your pooch to be part of your Independance Day celebrations, take them somewhere during the day time like a picnic or backyard BBQ where it's stress and fireworks free!
S & D: HAPPY 4th OF JULY, everyone!
