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Posted: July 3, 2006
On July 4th you’ll see the family dog everywhere. Enjoying a ride on the family boat, sprawled out on a picnic blanket with the kids waiting for the burgers to grill, jumping along the curb while “mom” waves to junior riding on the July 4th parade float.
As night falls you’ll see Fido sitting on one of the lawn chairs set up in the back of a pickup truck, or walking excitedly through the park as families gather for the City’s fireworks display. People just assume their family dog enjoys the noise, flash and sparkle associated with fireworks as much as they do. But the truth is, pets and fireworks just don’t mix.
It’s a rare animal that can enjoy a fireworks show, with most pets cowing in a corner, even at home, especially when left outside. The noise, the lights, even if in the distance, can cause extreme stress in many family pets.
The Plano Animal Shelter reminds pet owners to keep pets at home, or bring them inside if there are fireworks close by.
“During the noise and commotion of the holiday, animals may become so frightened by the loud cracks and booms of fireworks that they bolt and run away,” said the Shelter’s Senior Administrative Assistant, Debbie New. “That is one reason why we recommend people provide their pets with a safe and quiet place indoors, away from the holiday celebrations.”
Fireworks are illegal in Plano, other than the licensed City of Plano display, which will take place at Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve (Springcreek and Jupiter), 9:30pm, July 4th. A burn ban and continuing drought have made the majority of private fireworks displays illegal in unincorporated areas of Collin County this year. Still, there will be plenty of booms and bangs in the vicinity to provide anxiety for most pets.
Some tips:
Don’t take your dog to a fireworks celebration, even if he seems happy to be there. It’s the ride in the car, not the event, that will have that tail wagging. Dogs don’t always whine or whimper – yawning, drooling, jumping, barking and excessive panting can be signs the dog is stressed.
Remember your pet’s keen sense of hearing. What is loud to you is twice as loud to them. This is why so many animals run away or try to get out of their enclosures. The noise often causes pain, discomfort, panic and fear.
If at all possible, keep your dog or cat inside during a fireworks display. The garage will work if you don’t normally have the pet indoors.
Even if you only take your pet along “for the ride,” pass on it this time. A pet that remains in a car can be even more stressed from extreme heat, your absence, and be tempting to thieves.
If you have a pet flap in the door, block it off. Cats, especially, may bolt for the outdoors if frightened.
A pet left outside could be the victim of a carelessly thrown firecracker or act of cruelty, resulting in maiming or other tragedy. Ensure your pet is in a secure and safe place.
Keep on a television or radio when you leave your pet July 4. The sound will help mask the noise outside.
Make sure your pets are wearing proper identification so they can be returned if they do get lost. Animals found running at large should be reported to the Animal Shelter so they can be picked up and have a chance to be reunited with their owners. For many Shelters, July 5 is their busiest day.
If you have a pet that is distressed by loud noises, such as thunder, consult your veterinarian before July 4 to find out how to help alleviate the fear or anxiety it will experience.
If you are visiting outside of Plano in an area that does not have a private fireworks ban, do not shoot off fireworks near a pet or have a pet with you while you are setting them off or holding sparklers. The pet can distract you or jump on you, causing injury to the pet, yourself and others. It can also be injured if there is a misfire. Pets are also attracted to the smell and taste of exploded or unexploded fireworks, exposing them to toxic materials that can cause serious problems.
If you walk your pet in the evening, do so before the fireworks begin.
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