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Keep your pets safe during summer celebrations

Friday, June 26, 2009

KARE 11 reporting (video below)

July 4 is a time of celebration but Animal Humane Society (AHS) reminds us that fireworks and pets are a sensitive combination. We need to consider our companion animals during the holiday weekend and throughout all summer months since fireworks are legal in the state of Minnesota.    

“Simply leave your pets at home,” explains Paula Zukoff, behavior and training supervisor for AHS. “July 4 can be an exciting and safe celebration for everyone, including our pets, if we consider the affect it has on our companion animals.”

Zukoff also stresses the importance of leaving pets at home that have a fear of loud noises. She recommends pets with severe anxiety be left at home with a caregiver or family member so that they don’t hurt themselves.

The following are a few basic guidelines to consider to protect our pets during summer celebrations:

• Resist taking your pet to fireworks displays. Most animals don’t enjoy the noisy spectacles of the holiday and frightened animals can run off.
• Don’t leave your pet in the car while you attend fireworks displays. In addition to the danger posed by pet thieves, cars can heat up to a deadly temperature in minutes even with windows partially opened.
• Keep your companion animal in a safe, indoor place. Some can become destructive when frightened. Remove any items your pet can destroy or that may be harmful to them if chewed on. Leave a radio or television on at normal volume to buffer the loud noises outdoors.
• If you know that your pet is distressed by loud noises such as thunder, consult with your veterinarian before the holiday to help alleviate any fear or anxiety.
• Never leave pets outside and unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. Animals may panic, escape and get lost, or get injured by becoming entangled in their chain.
• Ensure your pets are wearing identification so they can be returned if they do get lost. A microchip is the best way to secure your pet’s return in the event it runs away or becomes lost.
• If your pet does get lost, contact your local animal control office or Animal Humane Society to file a report.

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