Denver City Wire

While most of us will turn toward the night sky on the Fourth of July next Tuesday, many pets will do all they can to escape the bombastic, dazzling displays of pyrotechnics that accompany our nation’s birthday. So, Denver Animal Protection (DAP) reminds us that while fiery fireworks are fun for people, they’re frightening for our furry friends.

DAP warns residents that fireworks, sparklers, and other devices that discharge bright light and sound can scare even the most chill of pets. Frightened animals are much more likely to run, hide or become destructive. Animal shelters, including Denver Animal Shelter,generally see more stray animals on July 5,than other times of the year. But there are many ways to keep your pet safe and calm during July Fourth celebrations. So, before you take your pet to a holiday event, check out the following safety tips:

Don’t:

• Take your pet to parades or fireworks displays or leave your pet in the car at fireworks shows.
• Leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. Pets that normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, when fearful. This could put them at risk of injury or death.
• Never leave a pet alone in a hot car. Temperatures inside a car during warm days can reach 120 degrees quickly. Animals can suffer life-threatening heatstroke in a matter of minutes, which can cause organ failure and death.

Do:

• Keep pets indoors at home in a safe, quiet area, perhaps with a crate. Some animals can become destructive when scared, so be sure to put away fragile items.
• License and microchip your pet. If your pet escapes, having identification increases the likelihood your pet will be returned to you. Visit the Denver Animal Shelter (DAS) at 1241 W. Bayaud Ave., to get your pet microchipped or licensed today.
• Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags, so if they do get lost, they can be quickly returned. DAS offers customizable pet IDs.
• Use a leash or carrier when transporting your pet if you must be outside with your pet.
• Talk to your veterinarian if you know your dog has anxiety. A doctor can prescribe medication to help.
• Keep sparklers, glow sticks, charcoal, food scraps, and kabob skewers away from curious pets.

DAP has additional tips on how to prevent and find a lost pet. Animals found running at-large should be taken to your local animal shelter where they have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.

DAS is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. The shelter will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, but officers will respond to emergencies. Also, the shelter has “night drop” kennels open after hours to help keep lost pets safe even after the shelter has closed. If your pet becomes lost over the holiday, check our Lost Pets listings online.

For more information about DAP and DAS or to license your pet online, visit www.denveranimalshelter.org.

Illegal fireworks can be reported online at Denvergov.org/311 or by calling 720-913-2059.

Original source can be found here