Whilefireworks and parades can be exciting events for people, most of us forget to consider how the Fourth of July affects our pets. "Fourth of July fireworks and festivities can make even the calmest animal fearful and disoriented. Pre-planning is the key to keeping your pet safe and comfortable," says Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County (HSVB & IRC) Pet Lost and Found Coordinator Barbara Reed. According to Reed, July 4 th and 5 th are the two days when the greatest number of lost dogs and cats are reported to humane societies across the United States. Many of these animals become disoriented by loud noises or fireworks. By following the HSVB & IRC's recommendations, you can keep your pets safe and sound on Independence Day.
Don't take your pet to fireworks displays. The bright lights and loud crackle of fireworks can frighten our four-legged friends. It's best to keep animals at home where they'll be out of harm's way.
Never leave pets in parked cars. Please don't leave Fido in the car while you're enjoying fireworks. Heat and humidity inside a car can injure or kill your pet even after nightfall. Leaving your car window cracked isn't a safe option either, since strangers can easily open your car door and steal your pet.
Keep pets indoors. Animals left in yards or in screened patio enclosures can become so disoriented from fireworks and loud noises that they will often dig, climb or tear out. The safest place for your pet is in your home. To increase your pet's comfort level you can create a sanctuary by putting him in a room and turning on soft music or talk radio so he'll be comforted by the sound of human voices.
Speak with your vet. If your animal becomes anxious from loud noises such as thunder, speak with your vet prior to Independence Day to determine if medication might be an appropriate option to help keep her calm.
Identify your pet. It's best to both microchip AND keep a collar and tag on your dogs and cats. ID tags are available
free of charge to Indian River County residents by visiting the Humane Society. Microchipping is an inexpensive and fast procedure performed by a veterinarian that provides your pet with life-long, permanent identification. Please speak with your vet about microchipping your pets.
Call the Humane Society immediately if your pet is lost. The HSVB & IRC makes every effort to reunite lost pets with their families. If your pet becomes lost, call (772) 567-2309 or e-mail lostfound@hsvb.org. Pet owners should visit the Humane Society to look for their pet as well as file lost reports with all other animal shelters within a 50 mile radius of their home.