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Firework Safety Tips for Pets

The following firework safety tips are aimed at pet owners.  Animals have very acute hearing and the loud noises that emanate from firework displays can cause actual pain in their ears.  It's not unusual for pets to run away in an effort to escape the scary lights and sounds.  Your pet doesn't have to suffer.  Follow these simple tips to help your pet ride out this storm.

Firework Safety Tip No. 1:  Keep Pets Indoors

Any aviaries or enclosures that house pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs or birds outdoors should be brought inside the home or garage and placed in a quiet area.  If it's not possible to bring the animal(s) indoors, turn the enclosure around so the opening faces a wall or fence instead of an open garden.

Dogs and cats should be kept indoors when fireworks are being shot off.  Remember to walk dogs before the fireworks start.

Firework Safety Tip No. 2:  Prepare a Safe Environment

Placing extra bedding in your pet's enclosure provides a secure area for it to burrow in.  This will help your pet to feel safer as well as to muffle the sounds.

Cover bird cages/aviaries and enclosures with thick blankets.  This will block out the sight of the fireworks and help to hush the booms and whistles.  Be sure there is enough ventilation.

Sudden, ear-splitting bangs and bright lights shooting overhead can easily frighten cats and dogs.  Close all the windows and doors of your home; draw the curtains.  This will block out the lights and help minimise the noise of the fireworks.

Block off all pet doors so you pets can't escape into the night and risk getting injured.

Maintain as normal a routine as possible.  If your pet is used to the sound of the TV or radio, turn them on.  This will help cover the noise from outside but don't turn the volume up too loudly.

You can prepare a ‘den' for your pet to go to seek shelter.  Place some of your old clothes under the bed where it can hide when the fireworks start.  Your pet will find your scent on the clothing reassuring.

Firework Safety Tip No. 3:  Avoid Leaving Your Pet Alone

While fireworks are a source of fun and entertainment for humans, the booming bangs and dazzling lights of a pyrotechnic display is a potentially stressful experience for your pet.  They look to their owners as a source of comfort and consolation.

If you do need to leave your pet, don't be surprised if upon your return you find it has been destructive in your absence.  For many pets, this is a common reaction to a distressing situation; it's their way of coping.

Please don't take their wanton vandalism personally.  They aren't trying to get back at you for leaving them.  Losing your temper and shouting at them will only stress them more.

I hope you find these firework safety tips beneficial in helping you create a safer surroundings for you pet.

Have a great 4th of July.  Have fun, stay safe.

About the Author

If you would like more information on firework safety, check out Tips on Firework Safety.  You'll find more advice on firework safety as well as useful websites and reading material.

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