Fourth of July reminders for veterans and pets

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Fourth of July falls on a Thursday this year which means a longer stretch of fireworks which could cause distress for veterans and pets.

The window to set off fireworks in Michigan actually started on Saturday and extends until Friday night. We spoke with experts on how you can help lower stress for everyone during the holiday.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE DURING THE FOURTH OF JULY

The Kent County Animal Shelter said they always see an uptick in runaway animals around the holidays and Independence Day is no exception.

Angela Hollinshead, the shelter’s director, said last week that they were almost at full capacity. With loud booms and bright flashes from fireworks this week, she expects the number of runaway animals to increase.

Fireworks can cause anxiety in animals, which could cause them to run away. With more people coming in and out of your home, it could be easier for your pet to slip out of an open door or gate.

“Fireworks can really, really increase stress in animals, not just companion animals like cats and dogs, but also wildlife. So we really encourage owners to prepare before the celebrations start to really ensure that your pet is more comfortable,” Hollinshead said.

Hollinshead recommends talking to your veterinarian about anxiety medication for your animal to help keep them calm during the fireworks shows. For dogs, she said you should make sure you walk them during the day before the shows begin.

If your pet gets out of your home, first check with your neighbors. Hollinshead said most animals don’t tend to wander far from home. If you happen to find a lost animal, keep the pet with you if you are able, while you try to find their owner. The best way to make sure you and your pet are reconnected is to make sure they are microchipped and the information is up to date.

She added that social media and the Internet are other great tools to help you find your pet. The shelter posts all animals that they find on Petco Love Lost , which has helped them connect many owners and their pets.

HOW TO KEEP VETERANS SAFE DURING THE FOURTH OF JULY

Fireworks can also cause stress for veterans, especially those who live with post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD is a mental health disorder that typically follows shocking or terrifying events. It is slightly more common in veterans, according to the National Center for PTSD .

Ryan Grams, the director of Kent County Veterans Services, is asking everyone to check in with their neighbors before firing off fireworks. He said the flashing lights and loud booms could cause flashbacks, anxiety attacks and nightmares for some veterans.

Grams said another concern around the holidays is the increase of veterans who die by suicide. He said the best way to make sure veterans in our community are safe is to visit and have open communication with each other.

He recommends knocking on your neighbor’s door to let them know you are about to set off fireworks. If you know a veteran has PTSD, he said a way to help is sitting with them during the show and turning on music or the television to drown out the noise.

“My big hope is that the people in our community, our neighbors, are very courteous to our veterans, to the veterans that live around them and realize that they’re there and maybe slow down and maybe stop a little earlier than they need to just so that we can all get along,” Grams said.

Kent County Veterans Services has different group therapy programs to help veterans talk about their experiences. The suicide and crisis lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone in distress. All you need to do is call or text 988.

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