Tips for Keeping Pets Safe on July 4 Weekend

Local animal shelters are advising Bay Area residents to take some precautions to make sure July 4 fireworks don't turn this year's celebration of the nation's birth into an occasion of mourning the loss of a pet.

The loud sounds and bright lights can cause even normally well-behaved animals to panic and run away, get tangled up in their chains, chew through leashes, or dig under fences, according to the shelters.

Pet owners are advised not to take their animals, which are more sensitive to noise than humans, to fireworks shows or to leave them unattended in yards during the displays, San Francisco Animal Care and Control officials said.

"We've seen too many sad endings that could have been prevented," department Deputy Director Kat Brown said in a statement. Animals should be kept inside during fireworks shows, which are scheduled throughout the Bay Area over the weekend and on Monday night, according to Animal Care and Control.

Pets should also be taken out for exercise early in the day to try to tire them out. Owners are further advised to make sure their pets have up-to-date identification tags or microchips in case they do get out. Pets also should not be left in cars during daytime activities because the hot, still air can cause serious injury or death.

Cracking the windows does not give the animal enough air, and only provides an opportunity for pets to be stolen, according to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter.

Owners who know their pets are easily distressed by loud noises such as thunder can also consult their veterinarians for ways to alleviate anxiety during fireworks.

- Bay City News