How to not lose your pets during 4th of July fireworks

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – We know the Fourth of July means fireworks and loud noises all week long.

But your pet at home doesn’t know what fireworks are and can be scared.

Around the Fourth of July is when animal shelters are at their highest intake rates. The festivities spook pets from their homes. Animal caretakers are asking pet owners to be on high alert on Thursday and the rest of the weekend.

Fireworks are a staple of the holiday but pets don’t know that. The explosive noises and debris can cause panic for pets and run away. Jane Macmurchy from Animal Charity of Ohio says there are a few things pet owners can do to help prevent this.

She says to stay home with pets during fireworks. Keep them inside during hours when fireworks are going to be set off. If pets are scared of the noises, stay with them in a cool and dark room to help them relax.

If your dog or cat is typically let off-leash or in a fenced backyard, leash them up and don’t leave their side.

“A firework gone wrong that is shooting directly in your animal’s way. You don’t know what could happen. So, it’s always recommended if you’re animal is going outside to keep them on a leash and stay outside with them,” Macmurchy said.

Macmurchy says this is the best way to avoid any accidental run-aways.
This also helps shelters avoid taking in extra dogs than they need to.

If a pet does get loose she says to contact shelters and dog wardens, but a microchip is the best way to ensure a pet makes its way back home.

“Next thing is to make sure that your pet’s microchip is up-to-date and registered. To make sure they have their collar and tags on with up to date information,” Macmurchy said.

This way pets can be identified and returned back to their owners, and it avoids overburdening shelters. If your pet doesn’t have a chip or contact information contact the county warden if your dog is lost.

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