Pets and fireworks

From staff reports
Published: June 30, 2008

Helping your pets cope with fireworks:

— Keep pets securely indoors during fireworks, which can spook them into breaking leads and jumping fences in an effort to get away from frightening sounds.
—  Some pets feel more secure in a smaller room or an enclosed space, with the door left open. If your dog likes the crate, use it but leave the door open so the dog doesn’t feel trapped.
—  Walk your dog before fireworks start.
—  Make sure your pet’s ID information is current.
—Play soothing music.
—Make a party of the noise, if possible — clap, cheer and give treats. It might condition the pet to think of the noise as something positive.
—Talk to your veterinarian ahead of time about measures you can take, such as whether medication would be appropriate.
—Keep pets away from fireworks.