Greenbelt Officials Urge Consideration for Pets on the Fourth

It's best to leave your pets and dogs at home on the Fourth of July for many reasons, according to Celia Craze, who manages the Greenbelt Animal Shelter.

"As much as we might want to spend the day with them. It's not a particularly good environment for the dogs," Craze said.

She pointed out several reasons for not bringing pets, and dogs in particular, to Greenbelt's Fourth of July festivities:

• Crowds: Craze said being in a crowd with a lot of people around will be somewhat of a chaotic environment, which is stressful for dogs.

• Heat: "We're having a heat spell, and as hot as we get, it's harder for a dog to moderate its body temperature."

• Noise: She added that the loud, sudden noises of fireworks is highly distressful for some dogs. Not only will it be uncomfortable for the dog, it will be uncomfortable for the owners to see their dogs in distress.

"Even for a dog that's highly social and not bothered by crowds and heat and all the rest, it's still not the best," Craze said. She said it might be more comfortable for them at home, in air conditioning, and with a bowl of water or at another place where they can take naps and enjoy the day.

Bringing a dog to the festivities will also put a damper on the day for those who care about them, Craze thought. "As an owner, you're going to be dealing with your dogs anxiousness and perhaps overall discomfort," she cautioned.

The City of Greenbelt and the Greenbelt Police Department agree with Craze's assessment, recommending that owners do not bring pets to the city's holiday celebration activities.

For a on the Fourth of July, check out Patch's posting.