Happy 4th!
Here are some quick tips to help keep your pets safe on this holiday from Cheryl Brady of VetCare Express.
Provide a “safe place” for your dog. If they are already crate-trained, place them in their crates with some favorite chew toys and a blanket. Containing your dog in a familiar place will help them feel more secure.
If your party has to move inside to take cover from rain, chances are the host and friends will be running back and forth to the barbecue grill. If you are at home with friends, make sure everyone knows to pull the doors shut and ensure that your dog stays inside. It’s easy for a guest to let someone with four legs accidentally slip out.
If your dog is bothered by fireworks, you might consider a Thundershirt or some pet calming treats. Check local pet stores like Woofgang Bakery on Bee Ridge, or Holistic for Pets on Fruitville.
The most important thing you can do in advance of the celebration is to make sure that your dog’s identification tags are up-to-date. Having your phone number right on your dog’s collar can get him home fast. If you dog has a microchip, you can ask your vet to scan it and make sure it is also registered and has current information.
If you notice that your dog is overly sensitive to loud noises – check with your veterinarian now – there may be a natural non-sedating remedy to help your dog through thunderstorms and the 4th of July. Keep them inside, and keep them safe.
If the worst case scenario transpires and your dog gets lost.
Contact Sarasota County Animal Services to fill out a Lost Report at (941) 861-9501. If you get the answering machine leave a message, as it is checked regularly including weekends & holidays. They will need to know the animal type/description, name, location it was last seen, your name, address, and contact information. You can email a photo with the above information to [email protected].
Then immediately following, post a picture of your dog, the date lost, the zip code and cross streets to Facebook. Use the SarasotaDog page and the Lost and Found Pets Group 941. Lost and Found Pets on Facebook has lots of other tips and helpful information so be sure to post there.
Place posters around your neighborhood, and put some of your clothes out on the driveway (that you’ve worn).
Don’t give up! Knock on doors and talk to your neighbors, there’s a good chance someone has seen your dog.