Heather Ainsley
news@greenepublishing.com
As summer kicks into full-gear, American's everywhere prepare to fire up their grills, stoke up their inner patriot and get the fireworks ready for the Fourth of July. This holiday is celebrated every year and is a favorite for many and their families.
But this holiday is also infamous for pets going missing. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), more pets go missing during the July 4 holiday than any other time of the year. With planning your family's holiday festivities, there are some key factors for your dog that may lead to him fleeing his home in fright.
The first is that he doesn't understand what a holiday is. He doesn't know why everyone is gathering or why there are so many strange people he has never met in his home. He won't understand why there are so many loud children running around, or so many strange decorations everywhere. No one has ever explained to him that the explosions and bright flashes of light and loud color in the backyard are safe and intentional. It is important to know your dog and to see the situation from your dog’s point of view.
Fireworks are not for dogs. Dogs have highly developed senses, much stronger than our own. The scent of the smoke left behind can be uncomfortable for your pets. Add that to the effect of the loud fireworks on your pet's sensitive hearing.
What is fun for us can be stressful for them. Children love dogs, and if you are a responsible pet owner, you have properly trained your children on what is appropriate in regards to encounters with family pets. But, just because you have taught your children well does not mean others have done the same. Keep an eye on any visitors in your house and be firm about respectful treatment of your animals.
Ensure that your dog has a safe and secure place to get away from guests if he is overwhelmed. Holidays can easily become overwhelming to a pet that is used to a routine.
With increased foot traffic through your home, there is also an increase in escape opportunities for your pets to take. With all the preoccupation that comes with planning a party, no one may notice if your dog sneaks out the door while people come and go. Once outside the security of their home, a pet can become disoriented and frightened, especially once fireworks begin. Remember that pets are only truly safe when they are home, indoors. Never assume that a dog that has run away will find their way home on their own safely.
There are several ways to ensure the continued safety of your pet. Keep a form of identification on your pet, with updated contact information for how to reach you. Keep your pets inside while enjoying fireworks at home, and refrain from taking them along when attending public fireworks displays in your community. Keep human food consumption to a minimum, and do not leave fireworks and decorations in places where pets can find them and chew or eat them.
We all love a good holiday. Having our loved ones close as we enjoy the celebration is an important part. But, try not to romanticize situations that may come at your dog’s detriment. Enjoy your holiday knowing that your canine companion is safe and sound.