Group Releases List of Precautions and Steps to Take to Protect Your Companion Animals (Pets) On the Forth of July

From the HSUS at http://www.hsus.org

To protect your pet on the Fourth of July, take these precautions:

a. Resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays.

b. Do not leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a
car, your pet can suffer serious health effects, even death, in a few short
minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but do
provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.

c. Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals
can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you've removed any
items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if
chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him
company while you're attending Fourth of July picnics, parades, and other
celebrations.

d. If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like
thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help
alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks
displays.

e. Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a
chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape
and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or
death.

f. Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do
become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large
should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best
chance of being reunited with their owners.

If you follow these simple precautions, you and your pet can have a safe and
happy Fourth of July.