Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/pet-friendly-fireworks/
The Fourth of July stands for independence for all Americans, and there is no shortage of ways to celebrate. From small backyard cookouts, to neighborhood block parties, to fireworks at night, the Fourth is one of the biggest summer events in North America
For pets, however, this holiday takes on a much different tone. As Purina reports, more pets run away on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year.
An estimated one-fifth of pet disappearances are due to very loud sounds, Animal Ethics reports, mainly fireworks and storms.
According to a study published in International Zoo News, the effects of fireworks on animals have also been observed in zoos. The noise of fireworks makes animals such as rhinos and cheetahs very nervous, also visibly affecting others such as elephants, while rodents continue running minutes after the noises cease.
Dogs hear sounds in frequency ranges we don’t even recognize as humans, K9 University reports. A near sonic firework blast is heard by a dog much more clearly and extremely different than humans. Added to their sensitive hearing, around 45% of dogs have a firework phobia, according to The Conversation.
Dogs that run off out of curiosity have a higher chance of returning than those that run away as a result of panic, such as loud noises, fireworks, or gunshots, K9 University reports.
“A panic stricken dog is not exploring; therefore, they are not smelling or living life as normal dogs,” the report maintains. “They are in a constant state of panic, and this panic in most cases will cause them to not recognize their own family members. Their job is to get away from everything. Chances are that they will not be found unless they are cornered and netted.”
If your dog does run off, making sure people can identify it and contact you can save a lot of frustration. Getting your pet microchipped in advance of the Fourth of July and other summer holidays is a smart decision. It’s also a good idea to attach identification tags to your pet’s collar.
Keep your pets mental and physical health in mind this summer. Click below to sign the Friendly Fireworks Pledge and show your pet you care!
Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog
