How To Keep Pets Safe During July 4th From Chicago P.A.W.S.

BEVERLY, IL – As Fourth of July celebrations begin, Chicago P.A.W.S. is sharing advice and guidance on how to keep your pets safe during the holiday, especially when fireworks are being set off.

Fireworks shows are often very crowded and held in areas that your pet is not familiar with. This, combined with the noise of the fireworks can cause your pet stress, and make them want to run away to find some shelter. The best place for your pet is in the safety of their own home.

For families who are holding at-home fireworks celebrations, pets should be kept indoors, as fireworks can pose a serious danger to pets, especially curious ones. Besides burns, unused fireworks can contain potentially toxic substances such as arsenic and potassium nitrate.

P.A.W.S. said more pets are lost over the Fourth of July than at any other time of year. The panic caused by fireworks or other loud noises can make them break their restraints or jump a fence in an attempt to find safety. To prevent your pet from escaping as guests go in and out of your home, leave them in a quiet room or behind a baby gate.

In the case that your pet does escape, you will want to make sure that you take all necessary precautions to make it easy to locate them. Microchip your pet and update their contact information so you can be contacted when your pet is found. Pets should always have an ID tag on their collar with their name, address and phone number.

Dogs should never be left in a car unattended, even with the windows cracked. Temperatures can reach over 150 degrees in minutes, and dogs can overheat and suffer from heat exhaustion.