Vets urge pet owners to plan ahead for fireworks and summer heat

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - As the Fourth of July approaches and Alabama heads into the heart of summer heat, veterinarians are urging pet owners to plan ahead because what feels like holiday fun for people can be frightening, and even dangerous, for animals.

Experts say more pets go missing on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year, often because they bolt when fireworks start.

PetFinder recommends using the days before the holiday to make sure your pet has an up-to-date, easy-to-read ID tag on its collar and that you have a current photo in case your pet gets loose.

Veterinarians also recommend exercising pets before parties and fireworks begin, which can help reduce stress when loud noises start later.

Don’t forget the summer heat

Beyond the holiday weekend, pet owners are also being reminded to watch for summer heat dangers in Alabama, including heat exhaustion and burned paw pads from hot pavement.

To lower the risk, vets suggest limiting time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day and scheduling walks and playtime early in the morning, before heat and humidity peak.

Fireworks anxiety: what to do

If your pet is anxious around fireworks, veterinarians recommend:

• Keep pets inside in a secure room
• Use a TV or fan for background noise
• Never leave pets tied up outside

If your pet does get out, contact your local animal shelter right away and post a photo with the most current information to help reunite you quickly.

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