As Fourth of July approaches, the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast is urging pet owners to prepare for the stress and safety risks that fireworks can pose to animals.
Once the fireworks begin, owners should observe whether their animals begin to act out of the ordinary, such as excessively panting, trembling or shaking, whining, howling, barking, meowing, hiding, chewing furniture, or looking for constant reassurance. These behaviors are examples of how anxiety presents in pets.
How to Keep Pets Calm:
- Bring pets indoors before fireworks begin
- Close windows and blinds
- Play calming music or white noise to help mask the sound
- Set up a quiet retreat area inside the home
One of the greatest concerns is that frightened pets may look to escape by jumping fences, digging under fences, bolting through open doors, or breaking through screens. The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast offers microchipping services, which can help reunite lost pets with their families.
The microchip is roughly the size of a grain of rice and is implanted under a pet’s skin through a procedure that takes just a few seconds, doesn’t require anesthesia, and lasts for the pet’s lifetime. It is programmed with the owner’s contact information.
Those interested in having their pet microchipped by the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast should call 772-600-3203 to schedule an appointment. The cost is $40 for an unaltered dog and $20 for altered cats and dogs.
Once a pet is microchipped, owners should make sure their contact information remains current. For more information, visit hstc1.org.
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