Fireworks are Not for Pets

Fireworks can cause injuries to pets and frighten them – Keep your pets safe this Fourth of July HOUSTON - While the Fourth of July is a time for fireworks and celebration, it can also be a time of anxiety for many pets.  The loud noises, flashing lights, and sulfur smell can cause excessive fear in pets. Pets should not be included in celebrations that involve fireworks.  Fireworks can cause injuries and burns in pets as well as people.  For example, pets can eat or chew unattended fireworks, causing injury and illness.  Frightened pets may break leashes, jump fences, run away, or bite someone, including beloved family members.  Even if your Fourth of July does not include fireworks, pets may become frightened by noises from neighborhood celebrations. Here are a few tips to keep your pet calm and safe this Fourth of July:

• Leave your pets at home.  Do not bring pets to the party.  They may become frightened and run away or cause injury to themselves and others.
• Keep pets indoors and mask outside noise.  Bring pets inside, away from loud noises.  Turn on the television or radio to mask the noises.  A quiet place, such as a carrier in the house, may provide your pet with a sense of security and comfort. Never leave pets unattended, even in a fenced yard.
• Make sure all pets are wearing current and correct identification.  Pets should always have on proper identification tags in case they run away or get lost.  This will be very helpful to local authorities as they try to reunite you with your pet.
• Talk to your veterinarian before the holiday for help and advice on keeping your pet safe and calm. If your pet trembles, drools, or displays other distressful behaviors during fireworks or thunderstorms, talk with your veterinarian.
• Do NOT leave pets in a car at any time, even if you are in the shade with the windows open. The inside of the car can heat up very fast, and the consequences can be disastrous.

“Pets do not enjoy fireworks like humans; they can become very frightened, run away, end up in our shelter, and cause a lot of stress to pets and their owners. We encourage residents to take precautionary measures during the holiday celebrations involving fireworks,” said Corey Steele, Director of Harris County Pets. Make sure your pet is microchipped and wears current identification.” Every stray animal brought to Harris County Pets Resource Center is scanned twice upon intake for a microchip; their photos are uploaded immediately to CountyPets.com to reunite lost pets with their owners.