Originally posted as Pet’s Safety During the New Year Celebrations on December 29, 2021.
Edited by Kennedy Boehm, Communications Intern

No matter how many calls are made to stop the use of pyrotechnics during the holidays, fireworks are part of the culture and the traditional 4th of July and New Year’s celebrations.

Although some people might enjoy it, fireworks and loud noises can startle animals and cause them to run away.

Whether or not you plan to celebrate the 4th of July, you must take precautions during and after the festivities to keep your pets safe.

Before the celebrations

• Ensure your pet is microchipped and wearing a proper collar with an ID tag. Also, make sure that the contact information is updated. This will increase the chances of reuniting with your pet if it escapes.
• Take a current picture of all your pets to have it at hand – just in case.
• Take your dog for a long walk before the fireworks start. This walk will provide the required exercise before all the noises begin.
• Prepare a safe escape-proof room inside the house where the pet can stay and be protected from loud noises. You can play soothing sounds or white noise to calm your pets. If you don’t have such a space to accommodate your pets, consider using a crate to keep them from running away.
• Consider getting your pet an anxiety-reducing wearable such as a Thundershirt.

During the celebrations

• Make sure to keep your pet hydrated.
• If your pet suffers from anxiety and you are considering sedatives, ask your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
• Be cautious about food at barbecues. Ensure your pet doesn’t pick up loose bones or scraps from the ground, as these can be harmful.
• No matter how friendly your pet is, loud noises, strange people, and places can be frightening to them. Please leave your pets at home to reduce the risk of them running away or causing harm to others under a stressed situation.

After the celebrations

• If your pet escapes during the night, visit Berks ARL Lost and Found Pets, where you will find resources to help you locate your pet.
• Check your yard for fireworks debris before letting your pets outside. Even if you don’t light up any pyrotechnics, debris may find its way to your yard.
• If you hosted guests, check for food scraps or other debris that may be harmful to your pets.

Happy 4th of July!