GWINN, Mich. — As fireworks and festivities ramp up for the Fourth of July, the Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter (UPAWS) is reminding pet owners to plan ahead for their animals’ safety and comfort.
Loud noises like fireworks can be overwhelming or frightening for pets, especially dogs, and can lead to stress, anxiety, or even attempts to flee.
“If you are going to fireworks, or parades, or loud activities such as that, please keep your pet at home, especially your dog,” said Ann Brownell, community outreach coordinator at UPAWS. “They can get spooked very easily and get stressed out with a lot of activity and noise, especially fireworks.”
UPAWS recommends setting up a quiet, calm space in your home where pets can retreat during fireworks displays. Pet owners should avoid leaving outside doors open and consider speaking with a veterinarian about calming medications in more extreme cases.
If you do take your pet outdoors, make sure they are wearing a collar with an ID tag. However, Brownell said it’s generally safer to leave pets at home during loud holiday events.
If a pet runs away or becomes lost, UPAWS advises owners to stay calm and notify local animal control agencies, nearby shelters, and neighbors as soon as possible.
For more pet safety tips and updates, visit www.upaws.org.
