Dear neighbors and pet owners around Capitol Hill: Not everyone loves fireworks– and the pollution alone might have something to do with it. Even though our neighborhood has some of the finest and loudest displays of patriotic fervor, take a moment to think of our more vulnerable captive population– pets. Dogs and cats –not to mention other smaller animals– don’t understand the difference between beautiful fireworks and other loud, terrifying noises. Below, a few words from Lara Walker, owner of Two Tails pet care on the Hill, about how to help your furry baby cope with the loudness. If you want to reach out to Lara, you can do so by clicking here. –María Helena Carey
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Make space in your bed for your furry creatures tonight. Photo by Lara Walker/Two Tails DC, via Instagram
Following is my annual reminder that more pets get lost on the 4th of July than any other day in the US.
July 5th is the busiest day for US animal shelters.
For your pet’s safety, please keep them safe inside with relaxing music or ambient noise.
Fireworks terrify many pets, dogs and cats: Create a safe haven for your pets in a sheltered, escape-proof part of your home w/ plenty of water. Turn on soothing music or ambient noise to help mask the fireworks with familiar sounds. The TV is another option, although it’s not ideal if the programming becomes loud or violent or news programs replay fireworks displays.
If you have a ThunderShirt for your dog, this is the ideal day to use it! (If your dog has thunderstorm, fireworks, or other noise related anxieties and you have questions about the ThunderShirt, let me know.)
Trumpets, drums, sirens, prop guns, canons, fireworks, poppers… All these loud sounds can terrify your pets. If you’re thinking of taking your dog to a parade or fireworks display, please think twice. But if you must, please:
- Bring lots of water and make sure it’s not too hot and humid (your dog would be happier at home in AC)
- Be sure to keep your dog on a secure lead with a well fitting collar or harness it cannot slip out of.
- Make sure your dog’s ID tags and online chip info and photo are up to date.
- Even the calmest and most well-behaved dog can be startled and bolt if surprised by a loud noise. It only takes a second for something to go horribly wrong, so best to be prepared to keep your fur babies safe.
Wishing you a safe and happy 4th of July!