How to Keep your Dog Safe on the Fourth Of July

Received this in an email today and thought I'd pass it along. (finally an email forward that is useful LOL) Here are some things to do to make sure your pets are happy during the 4th of July weekend. • Resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays. • Do not leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects—even death—in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen. • Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you’ve removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him company while you’re attending Fourth of July picnics, parades, and other celebrations. • If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays. • Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn’t leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death. • Make sure your pets are wearing CURRENT/UPDATED identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners. • If you plan to go away for the holiday weekend and take you pet, PLEASE make sure to be EXTRA careful. Your canine friend will not know where they are if they escape. Best to leave at home with a responsible dog sitter that understands the above rules or in a reputable boarding facility.