Blog: Keeping Pets Safe on the 4th of July

Can you believe it is almost July? This time of year can be especially scary for our furry friends. In our experience at PetLink, July 4th is our busiest day for lost pets in the whole year. Although the United States is still amid COVID-19, this will likely not stop folks in your area from setting off fireworks whenever and wherever possible. Here are some tips for keeping your pets safe and protecting them from noisy celebrations this 4^th of July:

• Take your dog out for plenty of exercise during the day before the festivities begin.
• Keep pets indoors; they may feel safer if they are placed in a smaller interior room with a radio/tv playing.
• Close your windows; dogs have been known to bolt through screen doors so keep your inside door closed.
• Check your fence line for loose boards or openings that your dog could slip through. We suggest you even keep a leash on your dog and walk him/her in the fenced yard during peak fireworks times.
• Have current, clear photos of your pets on hand. If they do go missing you will want to be able to quickly create flyers to distribute in your neighborhood.
• Make sure your pets are registered and your contact information is up-to-date in net, and that they are wearing visible ID such as collars and tags that display their name and microchip number clearly.
• If you have outdoor cats, make sure they are inside before nightfall.
• Provide a safe space for pets to retreat such as a closed room with their favorite toys, blankets, pillows, and plenty of water.

As we said last year (and every year) if your pet gets scared by the fireworks and escapes from your property, don’t panic! They are generally running away to find a hiding spot away from the loud noises and flashing lights. Do not chase or whistle for the animal, as it may make them more distressed. Alert local authorities, animal shelters, and put in a Lost Pet Report with PetLink*.  Put all their favorite things in your yard or on their porch, along with food and water. Once your pet is found, remember to close the Lost Pet report! Read our step by step guide for what to do if your pet gets lost.

We wish you a happy, safe, and calm 4^th of July!

*You will need to contact all three of those sources individually, as they do not cross-communicate.