HSPPR: How to keep furry friends safe during fireworks

(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate the independence of the United States of America, it is also a time of fireworks, which for some pets can be a terrifying experience. The Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR) shared some tips to help keep pets safe and calm during the holiday.

HSPPR said the days following July 4 are often some of the busiest days for stray pet intake, as pets will often escape from fear of fireworks. Pet owners should learn the signs of noise phobias and practice pet safety during Independence Day celebrations.

Common signs of noise phobia include; shaking/trembling, excessive drooling, barking or howling, trying to hide or to escape the house/yard, refusal to eat, and loss of bladder control. If symptoms of noise phobia continue after fireworks are over, pet owners should consult their veterinarian.

HSPPR said here are some tips that pet owners can follow to keep their furry friend safe during the 4th of July:

• Keep license and updated identification tags on them and make sure microchip information is up to date, to help HSPPR bring runaways home faster.
• Take them on a walk before the fireworks start so they can have a bathroom break and express some energy.
• Use a leash or carrier to keep your pet close if you must go outside while fireworks are going off.
• Keep pets at home, even if a pet doesn’t have a noise phobia fireworks can cause burns or other serious injuries to curious pets
• Secure your fence to make sure there are not any holes a pet could escape from.
• Keep pets in interior rooms if possible, keep them in a place where they feel safe, and use calming music, not the TV, to provide distraction
• Provide them with an “escape”, pets will often seek a familiar crate, bed, or hiding spot during loud fireworks so make sure they have access to a place they feel is their own.

“Enjoy your Independence Day holiday weekend and keep your Pet-riotic animal healthy and safe!” writes HSPPR.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.