Careful, July 4th is almost here

As a kid July 4th was always one of my favorite holidays. And why wouldn't it be? What could be better for a young boy than big colorful explosions in the sky? Luckily for us, our dog never seemed bothered by the loud percussive explosions, but he may have been the exception.

Many people don't realize that more pets will get loose during the July 4th weekend than any other time of the year because they are afraid of the loud noise of fireworks. Fireworks and loud noises may cause pets to panic, become excited, destructive, and frequently run away from home in fear.

As we all know, fireworks are often set off days before and after the 4^th of July so it is important to consider your pet’s safety now. Last year a dog in Albany ran away from home when fireworks went off in the neighborhood and the dog was hit by a car. Please don’t let your pet be next.

Here are a few tips for your pets on 4th of July:

• Never leave your pet in a car unattended

• Keep your pet indoors in a quite secure place
  

• Don't take your pet to the fireworks events

• For pets with severe anxiety talk to your vet, they may recommend sedatives or herbal remedies

• Make sure that you have a current pet id tag and make sure your microchip information is up to date

• Provide plenty of fresh clean, water as pets may pant excessively when afraid

• Leave a radio on with classical music or a talk radio station. Avoid loud or percussive music.

• Do not leave your pet outside. They may become so afraid that they will escape even though they may never have tried before.

• Do not leave your pet tied or chained up. When pets are afraid, they may try to escape from the chain and either injure themselves or pull the chain loose.

• If your pet is missing check immediately with your local dog control officer and animal shelter.

In order to help reunite pets with their families this year, the Humane Society is offering microchips for only $15 on Thursday July 2^nd and Friday July 3^rd from 10am to 4pm. The microchip is the size of a grain of rice and is implanted by a veterinarian between your pet’s shoulder blades. The chip then serves as a permanent identification for your pet. Even if they loose their collar, shelters and veterinarians will be able to scan the chip and return your pet too you. All dogs coming in for microchips must be on a leash. Cats must be in a carrier.