Pets and Fireworks: How to Keep Furry Citizens Safe on the Fourth
Fireworks can turn an otherwise normal evening into a warzone for pets, activating their flight instinct, animal control officials say
The frightening, disorienting effects of fireworks on pets has made July 5 the busiest day for animal control officers, left with the task of finding pets who fled from the perceived threat. John Welsh with Riverside County Animal Control explains how owners can keep furry citizens safe and calm during the explosive displays. Craig Fiegener reports from Riverside for Today in LA on July 4, 2012.
While the Fourth of July arouses patriotism for many Americans, the festivities – namely, the explosive extravaganza that is a fireworks display –aren’t as inspiring for the U.S.’s furry citizens.
Fireworks can turn an otherwise normal evening into a warzone for pets, activating their flight instinct.
"They’ll do anything to get away from the noise," said John Welsh with Riverside County Animal Control.
Related: Local Fireworks Shows
The frightening, disorienting effects of fireworks on pets has made July 5 the busiest day for animal control officers, left with the task of finding pets who fled from the perceived threat.
"We see an increase in strays running on our local freeways, pets found far from home and injured animals," Marcia Mayeda, director of the LA County Department of Animal Care and Control, said in a statement.
Last July 5, Riverside animal control officers found 168 dead dogs and are asking pet owners to take precautions this year.
"Place your dog or your cat in a backroom, maybe with some music playing or a TV on. Give the dog a chew toy," Welsh said.
The LA County department of animal control released a list of tips to keep pets safe while their owners “ooh” and “aah” at sky:
- Make sure your pet’s license is current and be sure the tags are securely attached to your pet’s collar.
- Keep your pets indoors in a cool, comfortable place with some "white noise" distraction, such as a radio or television.
- Do not keep your pets in the backyard or tied up. Dogs, in particular, may panic and injure themselves on a rope or chain.
- Do not take your pets to community fireworks events. Most events do not allow pets. The noise and other activities at these events can easily surprise and frighten your pet.
If you are leaving town for the weekend and cannot take your pets with you, make sure you leave them with someone who will be cautious and responsible during the Fourth of July celebrations.
LA county animal control center will be open on July 4 for anyone wishing to turn in a found animal or searching for a lost one. Animal care centers will operate on their normal schedule July 5.
Here’s a list of local animal care centers:
- Agoura Animal Care Center- 29525 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, 91301
- Baldwin Park Animal Care Center - 4275 N. Elton St., Baldwin Park, 91706
- Carson Animal Care Center - 216 W. Victoria St., Gardena, 90248
- Castaic Animal Care Center - 31044 N. Charlie Canyon Rd., Castaic 91384
- Downey Animal Care Center - 11258 S. Garfield Ave., Downey 90242
- Lancaster Animal Care Center - 5210 W. Avenue I, Lancaster 93536
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