5 Things To Protect Your Pet From Fireworks Fear!

Happy Fourth of July weekend!  As you plan your family reunion or pack your car to head out-of-town today -- make sure you keep a couple of things in mind if you plan on taking your four legged family member(s) with you!

Most likely your dog, cat, ferret, bird and/or horse has a fear of something.  The most common problem is the fear of loud and unexpected noises which is the whole point of celebrating our independence -- being loud and obnoxious with as many bottle rockets and sparklers as you can afford!  Plus, taking in your local fireworks display!!

Thanks to our friends at the Humane Society, here's a practical list of five things you can do to make sure your pet is as comfortable and safe as possible this holiday weekend.

• Leave your pet at home -- Fireworks displays can be disorienting and frightening to pets, even those used to going places with their people.

• Create a home sanctuary -- Leave your pet in an area of your home where he or she is safe, comfortable and sheltered from any outside noise and lights. An inside room with no windows may be best.

• Pet-proof your home -- When scared, some animals can become destructive, so be sure to remove anything that can become damaged or might harm your pet if chewed.

• Keep them inside -- Never leave pets outside and unattended. Even in a fenced in yard, panic can lead a pet to escape and get lost, or become injured while trying to seek refuge.

• Identification -- Make sure that your pet is always wearing identification. In the unfortunate event that your pet gets lost, an updated identification tag greatly increases your chances of being reunited.

Source:  Humane Society