Gwen Rummell Reporting –
As the Independence Day celebrations approach, it is essential to remember fireworks’ effects on our furry friends.
While elaborate fireworks displays can awe humans, the loud noises and bright lights can elicit a fear response in dogs. This anxiety can manifest in various ways, such as shaking, hiding, excessive barking, and even attempts to escape.
Beth Lewis, the Facility and Adoption Specialist at the Tuscarawas County Dog Pound, encourages pet owners to take the appropriate measures to minimize stress and potential risks associated with fireworks.
Dog pounds acquire many scared dogs that have escaped their homes around Independence Day. They’re happy to reunite these dogs with their owners, however, many dogs do not have updated or any identification of where they came from or who they belong to.
“Make sure your dog has a well fitted collar or harness, and that dog license is on that at all times. Make sure the information attached is up to date with current address and phone number.”
To prevent attempted escapes, owners can create safe, comforting spaces for their pets to reduce stress.
“While in the house, you can turn your TV up or [put] some music on, leave a fan running, something to kind of drown out the big booms.”
For owners with highly-anxious dogs, it is recommended for them to see their veterinarians soon as many offices will have limited hours or be closed around Independence Day.
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