Fireworks Strike Fear in Most Animals

Those fireworks that inspire pride and patriotism in Americans every Fourth of July instill only fear in most animals, according to veterinarians and animal control officers.

“Some dogs will actually jump through a closed window if they are frightened enough,” said Dr. Kim Henry of the McClave Veterinary Hospital in Reseda, where the emergency room is often full on Independence Day.

Dogs and cats will often run away or hurt themselves when they hear fireworks going off. Such holiday mishaps are easily avoidable if pet owners take some simple steps.

“Keep them inside,” said Senior Animal Control Officer Keith Kramer at the East Valley Animal Care and Control Center.

With many pets running astray, Kramer said the holiday “usually ends up being a very busy day for us.

“Scared dogs tend to jump over fences, even if they usually don’t,” said Kramer, emphasizing the importance of keeping pets indoors, rather than just confined in the back yard.

For some pets an oral sedative can help. Henry said the medication should be given an hour before the fireworks are scheduled to start.

“And if you’re out having fun, make sure your pet is taken care of,” Henry cautioned. “We see a lot of heatstroke.”

Shelter from the heat, especially for older pets, should be arranged and plenty of water should be provided, said Henry.