Independence Day is usually not a day our pets enjoy celebrating, in today’s veterinary blog a few reminders for keeping pets calm, home, and safe during the big summer holiday.

July 4th can be downright terrifying for pets. Loud booms and bangs, bright lights, crowds of people—all of it could send your dog bolting out the door/back yard. In fact, animal shelters around the country report their kennels are filled to capacity in the days following Independence Day. Treasure Valley shelters are no different. Even worse, many pets are injured and require veterinary care.

A few suggestions to avoid lost friends:

Exercise early. Provide an opportunity for your pet to burn off some energy to help them be more relaxed and ready to rest during the evening celebrations. It may prove challenging for Idaho dogs to enjoy a good walk due to the extreme heat we have been experiencing. If you can, exercise early in the morning when it’s still cool or find a way to play inside.

Keep pets indoors. Pets deal with the chaos best when kept safely in the house. A crate can add an additional level of security.

White noise. Use music, television or a fan to disguise fireworks.

Offer a treat. A new chewy or interactive toy will keep attention focused on something fun.

Keep pet identification current. If pets get loose, current ID tags could provide a ticket for a quick reunion. Also, don’t forget to update microchip information if you’ve recently relocated or changed phone numbers.

Prepare for early (and late) fireworks. Neighbors may celebrate in the days leading up to the Fourth, as well as the days following.

If your pet goes missing.  Contact area shelters immediately and file a report. Also, check back often.

• Idaho Humane Society (208) 343-3166
• Garden City (208) 472-2950
• West Valley Humane Society, Caldwell (208) 455-5920
• City of Star/Star Vet Clinic (208) 286-0440
• Mountain Home Shelter (208) 587-2111

The IHS shelter will be closed on the 4th of July. If an emergency involving a pet such as an injured stray or dangerous animal arises, an animal control officer can be dispatched by calling the Ada County Sheriff Dispatch at 208.377.6790.

 

WestVet does not take in stray or lost animals, we work with area shelters to reunite pets with their people. However, if your pet needs veterinary care and you veterinarian is unavailable, we are open and able to address your concerns 24 hours a day. and will be open and fully staffed throughout the weekend of the Fourth of July.

{extended}