(Mama says this fireworks burst reminds her of a watermelon. I enjoy watermelon.)
Hi all, Lily the corgi here once again to enlighten and entertain. This coming Friday is a thing the humans call the Fourth of July, or, Independence Day. On this day each year, the humans in our country celebrate freedom. I've personally never known the horrors of being restricted, confined, imprisoned...but my three fur siblings have had the experience of the animal shelter jail, so they can surely appreciate the freedom that comes from having a loving home.
Do you know that July 4/5th are the days when the most dogs are picked up by animal control? These are dogs who have been traumatized by the sights, sounds, and smells of Independence Day celebrations, especially fireworks. In fear for their lives, dogs will bolt and run, and run, and run. Then, on top of the fright from the exploding fireworks, the dogs become lost, disoriented, or even injured. Some dogs who escape do manage to find their way home, but every year many dogs wind up in animal shelters following their July 4th night of terror.
So, today, I'm going to pass along a few tidbits of knowledge regarding the July 4th festivities as it relates to the well being of your dog.
*1. About this time of year (late June) people start shooting off fireworks. It's time to double check that your dog has ample forms of identification so that if he is lost, there are ways to help find his way back. If you haven't already done so, get your dog microchipped! Don't rely on the chip alone, however. Make sure your dog has proper ID tags that include your phone number. Also, be sure you have a current photo of your dog, just in case you need to search for him.
*2. On the 4th, walk your dog early in the day, before people start partying and shooting off fireworks. Once you get home from your walk, keep your dog inside unless you are outside with her. If you are hosting a party or barbeque, make sure your dog is kept safe, away from charcoal, sparklers, fire pits, and glow sticks. If your dog is nervous from the noise and excitement, put her in the house away from the guests and distractions.
*3. When the fireworks start going off in earnest, make sure your dog is inside and in his safe place--quiet bedroom, crate, bathroom, etc... My siblings and I actually have our own room just off the kitchen. (Mama claims this is the human's safe room, but what does she know.)
*4. If the unthinkable happens and your dog manages to escape, make every effort to find her as quickly as possible. Contact neighbors, animal control, animal shelters, even the police department. Sadly, in some areas where the facilities are extremely crowded, "stray" dogs aren't held very long before they are euthanized. Don't let your furry family member become a tragic statistic!
Hey, I'm not too worried about the fireworks and goings-on, though I'm sure my neurotic sister Sadie will be freaking out on the 4th. I am much more interested in the fact that I've overheard mama saying there is going to be a party at our house, so I'm sure to get lots of petting, lots of attention, and lots of snacks!
Til next time, stay safe out there!
Love ya,
Lily the Corgi
(Seriously? What is the big deal with the firecrackers?? That money could be much better spent on dog toys and treats!)
Info in this article comes from our friends at PetFinder and at Kitties and Kanines. :)
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