This is a quick post on the importance of keeping pets safe before and during the 4th of July, and even after, when people are still doing fireworks. Many pets are very nervous and scared when hearing the fireworks; they don’t know what is the loud noise and if it’s going to hurt them. Their ears are much more sensitive than ours. Some pets, like my own, Petey, go into a panic, and due to his heart condition, he has collapsed after repeated fireworks (fortunately, he is on a prescribed homeopathic medicine which helps him recover). Cats who are allowed outside unattended (not a good idea), and dogs who are unleashed, or not held tightly, or able to escape their yards, etc. will run in fear from fireworks. This goes for domestic birds as well. There are too many dangers in the streets for these precious animals, and many lost pets do not return home.

So please use snug-fitting harnesses on dogs, also with cats who insist on going outside. Keep screens in all windows; make sure doors are closed around this time, and if you have repairmen or visitors, check after them that doors and gates are closed. Don’t expect a visitor to have the same care for your pet as you do. Also make sure there are no gaps or holes in your yard, or broken/damaged areas of fence where dogs could escape. It is wise to keep skittish or traumatized pets in a safe room, confined for a few days, around the 4th of July, for their safety. Always keep cats and birds in carriers or cages when transporting to a vet or traveling in a car. Remember that pets have the mentality of a toddler; they need you to take care of them always.