Keeping Pets Safe During Fourth of July

Many are going out of town or driving to firework events. Before doing so, make sure your four-legged friends are safe.

Local animal shelters are advising Bay Area residents to take some precautions to make sure July 4 fireworks don't turn this year's celebration of the nation's birth into an occasion of mourning the loss of a pet.

The loud sounds and bright lights can cause even normally
well-behaved animals to panic and run away, get tangled up in their chains, chew through leashes, or dig under fences, according to the shelters.

Here are some tips to keep spot calm during this weekend's festivities:

Keep them inside

Pet owners are advised not to take their animals, which are more sensitive to noise than humans, to fireworks shows or to leave them unattended in yards during the displays, San Francisco Animal Care and Control officials said.

Pets should also be taken out for exercise early in the day to try to tire them out.

Make sure they're up-to-date

Owners are further advised to make sure their pets have up-to-date identification tags or microchips in case they do get out.

Keep them out of the car

Pets also should not be left in cars during daytime activities because the hot, still air can cause serious injury or death.

Cracking the windows does not give the animal enough air, and only provides an opportunity for pets to be stolen, according to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter.

Talk to your vet

Owners who know their pets are easily distressed by loud noises such as thunder can also consult their veterinarians for ways to alleviate anxiety during fireworks.