To protect your pet this coming Fourth of July, take the following
precautions:
Resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays.
- The loud noises, crowds and heat can be stressful and
dangerous for pets. If your dog must be walked, do it before the
fireworks begin.
Don't leave your pet in a parked car.
- Even with the window partially open, car interiors heat
up dangerously fast in just minutes, causing your pet serious health
problems, even death.
Never leave your pet outside in the yard on a leash or a chain.
- When scared, even pets who normally wouldn't leave the
yard may escape and become lost, or get tangled in their attempts to
flee, risking injury or death.
Keep your pet indoor at home in a cool, quiet, isolated area.
- Keep your pet in a room with covered closed windows or a
basement where there are no windows, to help her feel safe and secure.
- Turn on a fan, a radio or television to muffle the sound
of fireworks and to keep your pet company. They'll provide familiar
indoor sounds and may help soothe your pet while alone on this noisy
holidy.
- since some animals can become destructive when
frightened, remove any items that your pet could destroy or that would
be harmful to your pet if chewed.
Never leave your pet alone.
- Dogs especially are pack animals and need the security
provided by the pesence of others. If you can't be with your pet, leave
him with a neighbor, particularly one that also has a pet. The
companionship of a confident pet can give reassurance to a fearflu one.
Distract your pet at the first signs of fear of anxiety.
- When your pet is first alerted to the fireworks,
immediately occupy your pet. Play games, engage in activities your pet
enjoys, and give your pet praise and treats for paying attention to game
or the commands.
- However, if you cannot keep your pet's attention, stop
the process. Don't continue to per soothe or reassure your pet, as
these rewards may inadvertently reinforce the fe arful behavior. Also,
never punish your dog for being afraid, as punishment will only frighten
your pet more.
- Instead, behave normally, and ignore any signs of
restlessness and stress while rewarding any calm, relaxed behavior.
Keep a collar and ID tag on your pet at all times.
- To make sure your pet is returned promptly if lost, make
sure the tag contains legible and up-to-date information.
- Make sure your pet's collar fits appropriately. A dog's
collar should fit no more than two fingers between the collar itself and
the pet's neck, and cat's should wear stretch or safety collars. Also,
consider microchip ID implants, which can be scanned at shelters if your
pet's collar and tags are lost.
If you find an animal that is lost, take it to your local animal shleter
right away.
- Lost animals taken to shelters have the best chance of
being reunited with their owners. Also place a "found" ad in your local
newspaper and post notices around your neighborhood.
- If your pet strays away from home, visit local animal
shelters as soon as possible. At each shelter, provide a photo and
specific description of your pet.
If you know your pet is distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult
with your veterinarian before July 4th.
- A vet can give you specific techniques to help your pet
adjust to sudden sounds in a safe environment, or refer you to a
specialist.
- Never attempt to give you dog any over-the-counter or
prescription medication yourself without consulting your veterinarian.
- The earlier in advance you begin your preparations, the
more likely it is that your dog will be able to cope with the sound of
fireworks.
"If you follow these simple precautions, you and your pet can both have
a safe and happy Fourth of July," says Vicari.
to the Ocean County News Page
