Guest column: Protecting your pets during the July 4 holiday

Here are four simple tips on how to keep pets safe during the July 4 holiday, plus a few bonus tips on how to find a lost pet:

1. Keep dogs and cats inside: Keep your pet indoors at all times during holiday celebrations. Try to walk your dogs before the firework festivities begin or when they end.
2. Make them feel safe: Comfort your pets with petting, hugging, talking to them in a soothing voice, providing a treat, and staying nearby if possible. Make sure they can access their crate or “safe place.”
3. Avoid the noise. Try to drown out the fireworks sounds as much as possible by closing windows, playing music, or turning on the TV. Avoid taking your pets with you to July 4 celebrations when you know fireworks will take place.
4. Act normal. Your pet takes cues from the actions of you and your family. It will help if you go about your normal routine as much as possible, talking and playing with your pet as usual.
5. Protect your pet before the fireworks begin. There are a number of lost-pet devices and services available today, including microchipping. Be sure your pet has a collar that includes updated contact information.
6. If your pet does get out, post their photo on Facebook. Julie Armes, the supervisor for the Oak Ridge Animal Shelter, recommends contacting your local animal shelter about posting your lost pet’s photo on their Facebook page. “Spread the work about your lost pet. Post photos and always include your contact information,” Armes said. “The sooner you get out there with the information, the better chance you have in finding your pet.”

By following these tips, hopefully fewer families will face the heartbreak of losing a pet during the July 4 holiday.