For many, the 4th of July is a time of festivities, barbecues, fireworks, and fun. For ourpets however, Independence Day is a source of potential stress, anxiety, and evendanger. We want you and your pets to have a happy and safe holiday. That's why ourEnrichment and Training Center has put together these tips just for you!

Remember: Pets don’t just need support on Independence Day.

Fireworks can often be heard going off on the days leading up to andafter the 4th.

Walk Your Fence Line - Be sure to secure any fences you rely on to contain yourpets before the first week of July. A loose board or a small gap in the fence may notordinarily be a cause for concern, however, a pet spooked by fireworks may bolt ifgiven the opportunity.

Don’t Leave Pets Alone Outside - The vast majority of pets that get lost or run off onthe 4th of July do so when left unattended outside. Even in a secured fenced area,fireworks and other noisemakers can quickly spook pets causing them to panic and tryto get out. Go outside with your pets to prevent the worst from happening.

Secure Windows - If you are leaving your pets alone, be sure to secure windows priorto leaving. Many people may wish to leave a window open to allow in fresh air, butstartled dogs and cats have been known to push open windows and even go throughscreens when frightened by fireworks.

Refill Necessary Anxiety Medications - Some pets find the first week of July utterlytraumatizing. For truly noise phobic animals, a prescription for anxiety medication froma trusted veterinarian may make the difference between having a tough night andhaving an unbearable one.

Update Pet ID Tags and Microchips - If your pet wears identification tags, be surethe information is legible and accurate. If you have recently adopted your pet, be suremicrochip information is also accurate.

Have a Current Photo of Your Pets - Not that many of us need much incentive totake photos of our pets, but prior to the 4th, be sure to have current photos of yourpets, should the worst happen and the two of you become separated.

Provide Enrichment - Consider providing your pets, especially dogs, with enrichmenttoys to occupy them during the peak of firework hours. A kong stuffed with goodiesand a frozen bully stick, or other chew item can help soothe your pet’s nerves andkeep her/him busy.

Can’t Hurt, Might Help - Unfortunately some things you just have to wait out, but ifyou know your pet struggles with fear of fireworks, you can attempt to reduce theiranxiety symptoms in a variety of ways. Start by turning on the TV, radio, or white noisemachine to drown out outside sounds. Draw blinds to reduce firework visibility.Purchase a Dog or Cat Appeasing Pheromone collar or diffuser to create a calmeratmosphere. Go on your daily walk/outing with your pet early in the day, so that youhave no reason to have your pet outside the home during peak firework hours.

Remember: The shelter and both Gift & Thriftlocations will be closed on July 4th.

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