Pet Safety and Fireworks
Pet Safety and Fireworks
Santa Rosa County Animal Services reminds residents that fireworks can cause a great deal of stress for some pets. Be aware that your pet may display behavior not normally expected including running away or “flight from fright,” biting, jumping the fence, digging out of the yard, and destroying yard or household items. Use caution and be sensitive to their situation. Typically each year, the shelter sees an increase in lost pets after firework displays. If you your pet becomes lost, contact your local shelter. Call <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = “urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags” /> (850)983-4680 in Santa Rosa County or search online at www.santarosa.fl.gov/animals by selecting the “Search Lost Pets” tab.
Help keep your pet safe during the upcoming fireworks displays by following these safety tips:
- Do not take your pet to fireworks displays.
- Do not leave your pet in the car while you watch a fireworks display. Even at night, the heat in a car can cause serious health problems and even death in only a matter of minutes. Additionally, a stressed animal can cause major damage to the interior of your car.
- Keep pets indoors. Close the curtains and turn on the TV or radio to provide some distraction.
- Never leave pets outside unattended, not in a fenced yard or on a chain if you live near a fireworks display or even if your neighbors are lighting small fireworks. They may run away or become entangled in their chain.
- Provide a small den-like place like a crate or pet bed.
- If you must be outside with your pet, keep the pet on a leash or in a carrier at all times.
- Take your pet for a walk first and/or encourage your pet to “go” before fireworks begin. This can help prevent toileting accidents if your pet becomes frightened.
- Ensure your pet has proper identification tags with current information, in case they become frightened and run away.
- Keep pets away from matches, open fires and fireworks.
- If your pet has a history of becoming stressed during times of continuous loud noises like thunderstorms, consult with your veterinarian to see if a tranquilizer is appropriate for your pet.
