4th of July Pet Safety - From DAWG at the Mission Viejo Animal Shelter
More dogs go missing or are injured on July 4th than any other day of the year. By following some simple tips, you can help keep your pets safe this 4th of July, and they will love you for it.
DO NOT take animals to any fireworks displays, as the noise can be be frightening and disorienting. Some dogs have also been known to try and attack fireworks or firecrackers, eat them, catch them or try to play with them, resulting in horrible injuries or even death.
Secure your pet by keeping doors closed so there's no escape route. If possible, close all the windows, too, and cover them (close blinds or curtains) so that your pet is insulated, thus creating a home sanctuary. Play soothing music or turn on the T.V. to help muffle loud noises.
NEVER leave pets outside or unattended.
If your pet doesn't have a microchip, make sure s/he is wearing current identification.
Never leave pets in cars unattended. On a sunny day, the temperature inside a car can skyrocket to 140 degrees in less than 30 minutes.
Make the grilling area off limits during parties and BBQs. Scraps can be tempting, but can make animals sick. Always keep fresh, clean water available for animals.
If you do go out, when returning home drive slowly and be aware of animals that may be lost and roaming.
The best thing you can do for Fido or Fluffy this 4th of July? Stay home. Just having mom or dad there while the fireworks are going off has the best calming effect on scared pets.
About DAWG
Dedicated Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) provides medical care and helping hands in order to comfort sick, injured, neglected, and frightened animals that come into the Mission Viejo Animal Shelter. We provide these services until the animal can be reunited with his or her family or, if they have been abandoned, they can be placed with a new family.
We are a volunteer organization without any paid staff. We are able to help so many animals only because of the donations we receive from our wonderful members and supporters. If you're not a member of DAWG, please join today. It's just $25.00/yr ($15.00/yr for seniors & students). If you're already a member, please encourage your friends and family to join! Or, make a donation to help save an animal's life. We can't do what we do without your help!
