Exhilarating, fantastic, exciting, great outdoor fun and food – that’s how most people view the 4th of July festivities. Terrifying, nerve-wracking, potentially poisonous – that’s how it is for our companion animals. Most people look forward to the fun and fellowship surrounding our country’s big celebration. For our pets, however, it can be a traumatic time.
Michael Graham, Executive Director of The Haven for Animals in Fairhope, says, “Celebrations like Independence Day can be…
exciting for pet owners but not for pets. We encourage pet owners to make preparations now to ensure that their pets have a secure, quiet place, away from the noise. It will cause avoidable anxiety for pets, which might result in injury or an opportunity for your pet to escape.”
Dogs and cats have a hearing, which is many times more sensitive than humans’. Many pets are so frightened that they run away, putting a strain on already crowded animal shelters. Sadly, some are never reunited with their families.
Here are some essential tips to keep your pets safe this 4th of July.
• Ensure that your pets are wearing tags and are microchipped if they are lost.
• Confine your pets indoors, in a quiet, safe and escape-proof area, away from windows and doors. Play soft music and have someone stay with them, if possible.
• If having a party or barbecue, feed your pets their regular food only – not table “treats.” Keep them away from alcohol, matches and lighter fluid, bug repellant, sprays, oils, glow sticks and glow jewelry, all of which can be toxic if eaten, drunk, or inhaled.
• Do not take pets with you to a fireworks exhibition or activities which are noisy.
If your pet escapes, check immediately with all sources that may have rescued your pet – neighbors, the local animal shelters, such as The Haven in Fairhope, the Humane Society, county facilities, veterinarians, and pet websites. Keep checking, and don’t give up.
The staff and volunteers at The Haven wish everyone a very happy 4th of July. It’s a time of celebration for you, but also a time to keep your furry family members trauma-free. While looking forward to the festivities, please remember to do everything possible to keep your pets safe.
The Haven is an important non-profit, no-kill animal shelter in Fairhope, Alabama. Through educational and volunteer programs, The Haven promotes community awareness of pet overpopulation and responsibility. For more information, to donate, or to adopt, please call (251) 929-3980 or visit www.havenforanimals.org.