More pets are lost on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year, according to Winnebago County Animal Services. But there are ways to keep them safe. (Photo via Canva)
By Chelsea Meyer
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Did you know that more pets end up in shelters during the Fourth of July than any other day of the year?

The noise caused from fireworks can frighten your pet and cause them to have anxiety.

Jaime Kusler, kennel supervisor at Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, tells the B103 Morning Routine that when a dog gets scared, this can cause them to bolt and run for a long distance until they get far away from whatever is terrifying them. In this case, with fireworks constantly going off, the dog will keep running and running.

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Kusler suggested to stay home with your dog if you can, or make sure they are secure and your house is secure

“Keep the TV on, keep them distracted, high-reward treats,” she said on B103. “Freeze a Kong with their favorite wet food or squeeze cheese or something — peanut butter — whatever your dog likes, goes crazy for, put it in a Kong or some kind of licky matter.

“It will help distract them but it will also be a reward for something scary so like, ‘Okay, yeah, the fireworks are going on but I’ve got this really good treat here so I’m going to focus on that.'”

Kusler also says if you don’t kennel your dog, this might be a good time to do so just to ensure they are safe and don’t get loose.

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Pet safety tips via Winnebago County Animal Services

Winnebago County Animal Services also provides tips on its website to help your pet deal with anxiety and fear on the Fourth. Here are the tips it offers: 

  • Do not take your pets to firework displays.
  • Keep the TV or radio on during fireworks to help drown the sound and distract them from the loud noises.
  • Consider purchasing a ThunderShirt – made specifically storms and fireworks — its gentle pressure has a dramatic calming effect on many dogs.
  • Walk your dog earlier in the evening before it gets dark and fireworks are more likely to go off.
  • If possible, be with your pets in the house during the displays. You can provide additional comfort for them.
  • Be sure your pets are wearing proper identification at all times –in case your cat or dog bolts away and gets lost.

This article is by Chelsea Meyer. She can be reached at chelsea@b103fm.com

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