Pet Safety For The Fourth Of July

Loud pops, booms and unpredictable flashes of light delight the senses of humans but can be an assault on those of their pets.

It is not uncommon for otherwise friendly animals to become aggressive when fearful — or injured by cars while in flight.

In the past, Hillsborough County Animal Services has released tips for pet safety, which warrant reposting with the Fourth of July celebration just days away.

Take heed and protect your pet from unnecessary angst and danger. Have a tip of your own to share? Let us know in the comment box below.
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Pet Safety For The Fourth Of July

• Provide a safe indoor refuge room for pets during festive fireworks. Provide plenty of water and soothing background sounds, such as from a television or radio. The room should be well-ventilated but without open windows for escape. When crating pets indoors, the carrier must be large enough for the animal to comfortably stand up and turn around inside.
  
  
• Feed and walk dogs early before fireworks and parties begin.
  
  
• Take cats inside whenever possible since they are prone to hiding under wheel wells and engines to escape the noise and flash of fireworks.
  
  
• Check with your veterinarian in advance about measures to calm your pet.
  
  
• Always keep rabies tags securely fastened -- just in case.  Micro-chips are a great idea, but County pet registration tags are required by law and show good samaritans that your lost pet has been safely vaccinated.
  
  
• Do not take pets to fireworks displays — public or private.
  
  
• Never leave pets unattended in vehicles — not even with the windows cracked or during evening hours.
  
  
• Never leave children alone to supervise dogs.
  
  
• Avoid leaving dogs tied in the yard during fireworks -- even if caretakers are on site.  Fearful dogs often jump fences with tragic consequences.
  
  
• Never punish pets for unusual and involuntary behavior brought on by stress.  Examples include loss of appetite, clinginess, chewing, panting and/or whining.

For more information, contact Hillsborough County Animal Services at 813-744-5660.