Fireworks and Fido don't mix

The Fourth of July is almost here, and that means backyard BBQs, fireworks, and an overwhelming number of stray dogs showing up at shelters across the country. Statistically, the Fourth of the July is the busiest time of year at animal shelters because of the sharp increase in stray dogs. Unfortunately, many animals that come in to shelters as strays are never reunited with their families, often because the pets are not wearing identification. Keep your dog safe this Fourth of July by keeping these tips in mind.

Leave your dog home

It's great to want to include your dog in everything you do, but if you're attending a fireworks display, leave your dog at home. A large number of dogs that end up at shelters after the Fourth of July ran away from their owners because they were scared by fireworks. Remember that the combination of large crowds and loud noises at fireworks displays is overwhelming to your dog and, if he is scared, he will panic and try to seek shelter, possibly breaking out of his collar or harness in the process. The safest place for your pet is at home away from the chaos of a fireworks display.

Drown out noises

It's not always enough to just leave your pet at home, especially if you can still hear fireworks from your home. Put on music or the television for your dog to help drown out the noise coming from outside.

Make a safe place for your pet

Your dog may want to hide, so create a safe place for him to go, like a dog crate in a quiet room. Depending on your dog, a blanket over the crate may help make him more comfortable.

Close the doors and windows

Yes, your dog can break through screen doors and windows, especially if he is in a panic. Closing the doors and windows will also help block some of the noise from outside, as will the sound of fans or air conditioners running.

ID is a must

Don't rely on a traditional collar and I.D. tag to help reunite you with your missing pet. Collars can fall off, leaving your pet with no identification at all. A microchip is the best way to ensure your pet is wearing I.D. at all times no matter what. Be sure to register your pet's microchip and to keep your contact information up-to-date, otherwise the microchip is useless. You vet or the local shelter can provide your pet with a microchip if he does not already have one.

This Fourth of July, please think safety first for your pets. Your dog would be much happier at home resting comfortably in front of the air conditioner instead of cowering by your side during a fireworks display. Please keep your pet in your home and out of the shelter!

Alaina Goodnough is the Promotions Coordinator at Cocheco Valley Humane Society in Dover, NH. She lives in Sanford, ME with two parrots, a cockatoo, a cat, a bearded dragon, and two dachshunds. She can be reached at CVHS at devassist@cvhsonline.org. To learn more about Cocheco Valley Humane Society, go to www.cvhsonline.org or call 603-749-5322.