For many companion animals the 4th of July is the hardest night of the year - ironically for all the same reasons that humans love the holiday - the big gatherings, loud noises and dramatic fireworks that brighten the night sky. It's great fun for us, but it can be very frightening for your pets. But the good news is that with a little planning, you can be certain that Independence Day is enjoyable and safe for everyone. "Dogs and cats are much more sensitive to loud sounds than we are," says Brenda Barnette, Chief Executive Officer for the Seattle Humane Society. "The sound of fireworks can scare pets and cause them to escape from a yard or dart out an open door to find themselves lost in the dark. Frightened, they are at an even higher risk of running into the street where they could be hit by a car."
This Independence Day, the Seattle Humane Society recommends these safety tips:
• KEEP PETS INSIDE
Secure pets in a safe, enclosed room, preferably one without windows. For those hosting guests at their home, consider keeping pets in a room that is off-limits to guests, with plenty of water and food.
• CREATE A CALMING ENVIRONMENT
Surround pets with favorite toys and other familiar objects. Play soothing music and keep the room as quiet as possible by closing doors, windows, and blinds.
• KEEP AWAY FROM FIREWORKS
Besides the potential toxicity pets can experience from ingesting the gun powder in firecrackers, there is the obvious risk of accidentally burning or injuring pets by allowing them to be in the same vicinity as fireworks.
• UPDATE IDENTIFICATION
The biggest risk this 4th of July is that pets will get loose and become lost. Even if a pet is secured inside, the sound of fireworks can cause them to enter an extreme panic mode. Dogs have been known to break through glass windows and cats are expert escape artists. Make sure pets are microchipped and wearing identification. Call to confirm that the pet's veterinarian and the microchip company have current address and phone numbers.
The Seattle Humane Society offers $20 microchipping (includes national registration) for pets of income-restricted guardians. No appointment is necessary. Hours are Wednesday through Friday, 3 to 5 p.m., or Saturday through Sunday, 2 to 4 p.m. Call (425) 641-0080 for more information.
