Pet safety tips during the festive July 4th firework celebrations — how to avoid a trip to the Emergency Veterinary Hospital or the animal shelter.

July 4th is the fun summer holiday that families look forward to, but it can be a scary and confusing time for pets.

Earlier this week, the Idaho Humane Society (IHS) is reminding pet owners to take extra precautions during The Treasure Valley Independence Day firework celebrations. IHS reports that after the July 4th celebration, their shelter is “bursting” with pets. The same holds true for other area animal shelters—all are inundated with pets that have become frightened and run away. Some even become injured and require veterinary care. (photo credit: VVNG)

This is a summary of the precautions the IHS recommends:

• Keep pets indoors. Pets will do best locked safely in the house when fireworks begin. Close windows and pull the blinds, consider crating him/her. A crate is a great place to keep them contained and secure. Don’t be tempted to take them with you to celebrations where crowds can add to their stress associated with the fireworks.
• Keep them distracted. Leave on music, television, or fan to disguise some of the firework noise.
• Offer a special treat. A new chewy or interactive toy will keep their attention focused on something fun, and away from the outside noise.
• Keep pet identification current. Even with the best planning, pets can get loose. Your pet’s ID tags should include your most current contact information. Update the microchip information if you’ve moved or changed phone numbers since it was implanted.

What to do if your pet goes missing on the Fourth of July. The IHS shelter will be closed on the 4th of July except from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. when staff will be available to accept stray animals only.  The shelter opens at 8 a.m. on Saturday, July 5th for owners searching for their lost pets. If your pet is missing, please visit the shelter immediately to look for your pet and file a lost report. Owners reclaiming stray pets at the Idaho Humane Society on July 5, 2014 through July 8, 2014 will have their pet redemption fees waived.  Owners whose dogs do not have their required current city or county licenses will need to purchase a license.

Stay safe, everyone!

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