July 2007 Newsletter
Keeping Pets Safe on July 4th(This message is from the National Association of Professional Petsitters)
To protect the pets you are caring for on the Fourth of July, take these precautions:
Do not leave the animal in the car: With only hot air to breathe inside a car, the animal can suffer serious health effects, even death, in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but do provide an opportunity to be stolen.
Keep animals indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area during fireworks displays. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you've removed any items that could destroy or that would be harmful if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him company while you're attending Fourth of July picnics, parades, and other celebrations.
If you know that the pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your client or veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.
Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.
Make sure pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.
If you follow these simple precautions, you and the pets in your care can have a safe and happy Fourth of July.
For additional valuable information visit The Humane Society of the United States website at http://www.hsus.org
