#Middlebury #FourthofJuly #Fireworks
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: Please remind your readers that the noise and flash of fireworks can traumatize pets! Last year, my son and his partner took their dog, Bliss, to a Fourth of July festival. Someone set off a string of firecrackers a few feet from the booth they were visiting. Bliss bolted and pulled her leash out of my son’s hand. She ran straight out into the road. Luckily, the cars all stopped, and one of the drivers caught her. Afterward she remained very anxious. Bliss now takes medication to stay calm, and it’s difficult to take her to unfamiliar places. Please urge people not to set off fireworks; go to a professional display and leave the pets at home. – Judith in Lake City, Florida
DEAR JUDITH: You told them, and I thank you! I’m very sorry to hear that Bliss was traumatized, and I hope your son is able, through medication and training, to improve her confidence.
Bliss’ parents didn’t do anything wrong in taking her to the festival, but their experience shows how others’ irresponsibility can have consequences for pets, and that owners have to be alert and ready to handle potential problems.
The Fourth of July can be a trying day for pets. Crowded parties and loud fireworks can really stress them out. Large fireworks displays are no different than big thunderstorms to most pets and should be treated as such.
If fireworks will be within earshot of your home this holiday, prepare a safe area for your pet to shelter where the noise will not bother it as badly. If a ThunderShirt works for your dog (or cat), use it. Don’t bring pets to fireworks displays, and if you’re setting off backyard fireworks, put your pets inside.
Send your comments, questions or tips to ask@pawscorner.com.
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