< Updated 09JUN22 >
< A short link for this page – https://bit.ly/PetsJuly4thFireworks >
If your pets gets anxious and nervous at the sound of fireworks, start planning now on how you will keep them safe and how you will minimize their anxiety.
- If you live in an area where others set off fireworks, have a conversation with those people now. Politely explain how distressing fireworks are to your pets. Ask them to either refrain from using fireworks or at least keep their use to a minimum; at times, you are not home. If you cannot reach an agreement, make sure you have the phone number of the local authorities on speed dial, and do not hesitate to make a complaint.
- Talk to your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medications you may use to help your pet. In addition, over-the-counter products such as Bach Rescue Remedy, Adaptil Dog Appeasing Pheromone, and CBD-endocannabinoid-based products specifically for pets and certain essential oils, such as Lavender, may also be helpful.
According to the American Humane Association:
- Ten million pets get lost every year. This is more than the population of New York City.
- Of the dogs entering shelters, approximately 35% are adopted, 31% are euthanized, and 26% are returned to their owner.
- 90% of lost pets are never rehomed with their families without proper ID or microchipping.
- A third of pets will get lost in their lifetime.
- An estimated 2 million pets are stolen each year.
To prevent your dog from becoming lost on the 4th of July:
- Please keep your dog on a leash unless inside or in a fenced yard. If people are using fireworks in your neighborhood, I recommend that you remain in the yard with your dog the entire time they are outdoors.
- If you have guests in your home, ensure everyone is careful so as not to let the dog out accidentally.
- Do NOT take your dog to the fireworks. They will not enjoy the experience and may become frightened and run off.
- If you choose to use fireworks at your home or camp, or if you have neighbors that do so, make sure that your dog is inside, preferably in a room where they will not hear or see the fireworks.
To give your pet the best chance of being returned to you:
- Please make sure that your dog is either microchipped or wearing a collar with a current, readable, and legible ID tag.
- If your dog is microchipped, ensure the chip registry has your current contact information.
- Keep a current photo of your pet that you can use on a “Lost Pet” poster if your pet goes missing. Make sure it’s a good photo that clearly shows any identifying characteristics of your dog.
- Maintain a list of phone numbers for your local animal control organization, police department, animal shelter(s), and pet-related businesses so that you can notify them if your pet is lost. Many will happily post “Lost Pet” posters that you create.
- If your dog is microchipped, contact the chip registry if they go missing. Many registries will help disseminate information about your missing dog on social media to aid recovery.
- If you live in Maine, contact Maine Lost Dog Recovery via their FaceBook page (https://www.facebook.com/MaineLostDogRecovery), as they can be very helpful in assisting you in getting the word out about your lost dog.
- If you are traveling with your pet, provide your pet with a temporary ID tag that provides local contact information for wherever you are staying.
Useful Links
Green Acres Kennel Shop ( greenacreskennel.com )
ForceFreePets ForceFreePets.com
Pet Professional Accreditation Board Pet Professional Accreditation Board
Pet Professional Guild Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
Pet Industry Advocacy International, Pet Advocacy International (PIAI).
The Woof Meow Show http://bit.ly/WfMwPodcasts/
©2022, Donald J. Hanson, All Rights Reserved < Click for Copyright and Use Policy >
treating firework, thunderstorm and noise phobias in dogs. The graphic from Facebook explains that “Ace” does not really resolve the dog’s anxiety and suggest you ask your veterinarian for a better, more humane alternative.
