Tips for a Safe Fourth of July
As people plan their July Fourth celebrations, San Diego Humane Society is reminding pet parents to keep their animals in mind, as there is often an increase in lost pets following the holiday. For the safety and protection of pets, SDHS recommends the following:
*Leave pets at home and inside. It is safer and less stressful for your pet if you keep them inside as fireworks can be scary and stressful for them.
*Create a home sanctuary. Leave your pet in an area of your home where he or she is safe, comfortable and sheltered from any outside noise and lights.
*Pet-proof your home. When scared, some animals may become destructive, so be sure to remove anything from reach that can become damaged or may harm your pet if chewed or eaten.
*Identification is essential. Make sure all your pets are microchipped with current contact information tags on their collar and that your dogs are licensed.
*Consult a veterinarian for pets with anxiety. Check with your veterinarian before July Fourth to seek out remedies to lower your pet’s stress level if this is a known issue.
“There is typically a spike in the number of stray animals that we receive the day after July Fourth. That’s why it is so important for pet parents to plan ahead and make sure their animals are safe during the celebrations,” said Dr. Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of San Diego Humane Society.
All SDHS shelters will be closed for July Fourth. If you find a stray pet over the holiday, please isolate him from your pets, keep him safe overnight and bring him to us on July 5, during normal business hours from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. If you lose a pet over the holiday, please check our Found Pets page on July 5.
