KANAWHA COUNTY, West Virginia – Fireworks are a beloved Fourth of July tradition, but they can be distressing and harmful to pets. Loud noises can startle animals, induce PTSD-like symptoms, and even cause them to run away from home.
July 5th is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters, with many pets being returned after fleeing during fireworks displays. Angie Gillenwater, Community Engagement Manager of the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association, emphasizes the importance of preparing your pets in advance.
βItβs something that we as humans understand. We know theyβre fireworks; we know that nothing bad is going to happen; we know that eventually they end. Cats and dogs and other pets donβt quite get that; they donβt understand that itβs just a loud noise; they donβt get that youβre safe, youβre fine,β explains Gillenwater.
The shelter takes several days to prepare for the holiday. Volunteers provide extra care and attention to the dogs and then secure them in their kennels to help them feel safe overnight. Despite these efforts, they still anticipate rounding up some frightened dogs on Friday and caring for them until they can be reunited with their owners.
To prevent your pets from going missing during fireworks, keep them in a secure location, such as a room or on a leash. Ensure their collar contact information is up to date, and consider microchipping them for easy identification.
If your pet does get loose, check local shelters and use social media to spread the word. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your pets stay safe and calm during the Fourth of July celebrations.
Matt Pinner is a dedicated journalist for WVPrepBB.com, specializing in USA and crime news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering the truth, Matt brings timely and insightful reporting to his readers. His work on WVPrepBB.com keeps the community informed and engaged with the latest developments in national news and criminal justice.
