4th of July festivities might be bad for your pet

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) – Ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, Michiganders are being encouraged to consider the safety of their pets, as fireworks and large gatherings can create a stressful environment for animals.

According to the ASPCA, more pets go missing around Independence Day than any other time of the year.

Veterinarians say the flashing lights, loud noises, and intense heat can all be factors that contribute to pets getting stressed and running away.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development suggests you make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchips are up to date with your current information. They also say you should keep pets indoors during fireworks and consider making a quiet and relaxing space for them.

“When a dog gets scared they run. When a cat gets scared they hide. So, on the Fourth of July, if they want an escape route they will find it,” said Hannah Page, community outreach manager at Ingham County Animal Control & Shelter. “Every Fourth of July, it’s one of our busiest days for strays because dogs…and cats run off and hide and someone finds them and brings them to the shelter. So, we see a large influx of stray animals.”

The Ingham County Animal Shelter offers $10 walk-in microchipping as well as an ID tag engraver. These services are available year-round, so you can make sure your pets are ready for every big holiday.

Remember, if you have horses or livestock, experts say you should make sure all pasture fences are secure. It may also be a good idea to take current pictures of all of your animals in case any get startled and go missing.

Reminders for your pets:

• Make sure their ID tags and microchips are up to date
• Make a quiet and comfortable space
• Consider taking your pets out to tire them out before the festivities begin
• Consider leaving your pet at home as large crowds can be overwhelming
• Don’t use fireworks with pets around
• Try to provide distractions like toys and food
• Consider staying home with your pets if they’re anxious
• Take current pictures of your pets in case they go missing
• Make sure pasture fences are secure
• Check on pets periodically to make sure they’re okay

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