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Consider pets' needs on
Fourth of July
July 3, 2008
It's enjoyable and relaxing to have our four-legged companions with
us when we do outdoor activities, like walking or going to the park,
but it's not a good idea to bring them to parties or celebrations
like the ones on the Fourth of July.
Loud noises, big crowds and spectacular fireworks displays can be
extremely stressful to our pets. Even a pet that has not displayed a
common fear of thunder can be jarred by the excited activity created
by situations that include loud noises.
Even if you plan to watch fireworks from the levees, even if it's
the same levee where you often walk your pooch, you should
definitely not bring pets along. They may panic and attempt to run
away.
If you are planning a get-together at home to celebrate the holiday,
which may seem more tame than going out to a public display of
fireworks, you should still use caution and help keep your pets calm
and safe. You may want to create a comfortable, quiet place for them
during the festivities, such as a separate bedroom where guests
won't enter and where they can be surrounded by familiar toys. Also
consider leaving a television or radio on to create a comforting
noise for them.
Also, if your pet is normally outdoors -- something that is not
recommended -- please bring them inside during events like those on
the Fourth of July or New Year's Eve. You may not have fireworks in
your yard, but neighbors and folks in the street might be setting
them off.
I've seen dogs panic in such situations and the results can be
tragic. Even in a fenced yard you should not leave them alone
because they may try to run away and end up injuring themselves or
worse. If you find it difficult to have them in the house all the
time, please make the exception and have them indoors during this
chaotic time of year. It's also a good time to make sure they are
wearing their ID tags, in case they do become startled and run
away.
Holidays like Independence Day may be a time of celebration for us,
but it can be downright frightening for our four-legged friends, so
be safe and sensitive to what it feels like and sounds like to them.
-
Gloria Dauphin
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