FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – Fireworks may be fun for us but can be frightening and even dangerous for pets.
Summer days, especially the ones in July, are some of the busiest for animal shelters. Pets can become so frightened by the noise and bright flashes of fireworks that they run away and, unfortunately, get lost. The hot temperatures add an extra layer of concern for a lost pet in an already dangerous situation.
Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control is urging pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their furry and even feathered friends safe during this holiday, here are some helpful tips:
- Keep your pets inside the house, preferably away from windows, where they are safe and comfortable
- Close curtains on windows to minimize the visual stimulation
- Play music, white noise, or calming shows on the TV.
- Provide pets with enrichment treats and their favorite toys to keep their minds busy and distracted from the fireworks.
- Some pets are more anxious than others. We recommend talking to your veterinarian before the holiday to see if medication could aid in keeping your pet’s stress level low.
- If you have cats, calming pheromone diffuser products can be found at pet stores and may help.
- When taking your dog outside to use the bathroom, keep them on leash with a properly fitted collar or harness even if you have a fence.
- Make sure all pets are wearing up-to-date I.D. tags on their collar or harness.
- If your pet is microchipped, confirm that the address and phone number are current. FWACC offers microchipping for just $15 for dogs and cats if your pet still needs one.
FWACC understands families wanting their pets to be part of festivities however, this can be overwhelming to some. An animal who is expressing fear, anxiousness, or stress is more likely to run away or even bite. For the safety of the community, your family, and your pet(s), please keep them safely inside this Fourth of July.Fearful dog that was found as a stray
If your pet(s) get loose, start looking immediately. Post your pets picture on Lost Dogs of Fort Wayne or Lost Cats of Fort Wayne pages on Facebook. Check our website often to view pictures of stray animals that have been brought to the shelter. Be sure to file a lost pet report online or in person at Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control during business hours. Lost pets can be picked up starting Monday, July 6th when the shelter reopens at 11 a.m. If you find a lost pet, it’s important to get it checked for a microchip at a veterinarian’s office or by an Animal Control Officer so its owner can be contacted.
Comments