Fireworks may cause added stress for pets. Here are tips for owners on how to help
Fireworks displays are seen throughout the country on Independence Day, bringing an exciting spectacle to many, but for a household's four-legged companions, the event can lead to a state of anxiety.
According to the American Kennel Club, pets go missing more often during Fourth of July weekend. Fireworks noise play a big factor in this, as they commonly send pets into a panic.
Fireworks often cause havoc for animals because of their acute hearing, according to Blue Cross. There are precautions that can be taken to alleviate some of the stress.
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Here are some of them:
Keep pets indoors for duration of fireworks displays
According to the Animal Defense League of Texas, the loud bangs brought on by fireworks can cause pets to flee, so they recommend pets stay inside where they can be monitored.
Make sure windows and doors are closed and close curtains
According to Blue Cross, minimizing noise that can be heard from inside may be beneficial. In addition to closing off outside sounds, increasing the volume of the TV and radio can help to block out fireworks.
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Ensure that your pet can be easily identified
Even pets that are secured indoors should wear collars with identification tags, according to the Humane Society. Pets may attempt to break through screen doors or windows in an effort to evade the noise, so owners should take precautions to make their pet easier to find in the event that they get lost.
There are also options available for pets that are hypersensitive to loud noises, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. These include anxiety vests, which may stimulate the heightened nerves of pets, or anti-anxiety medication, which can be administered at the discretion of a veterinarian.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: What can you do if your pet doesn't like fireworks?
