Many dogs
and cats become frightened of fireworks and may run if given the
chance. Because of this, PetsitUSA.com and its member pet sitters
have put together some simple steps for pet owners to take to
keep their pets safe during the July 4th holiday.
Austin, TX
(PRWEB) July 1, 2008 - The Fourth of July holiday can be an extremely
stressful and dangerous time for pets. Many pets are frightened
by the sights and sounds caused by firecrackers, sparklers, and
commercial fireworks. In their attempt to run from what they perceive
as dangerous, they may escape the safety of their own yard or
home and get hit by a car, become lost, or experience other life
threatening dangers.
The following
simple precautions will help pet owners keep their dogs and cats
safe during the Fourth of July holiday:
- All pets
should wear tags with the owner's home and cell phone numbers.
- Pets that
are being cared for by a pet sitter should also have the pet
sitter's phone number on their tag.
- Do not
take pets to fireworks displays.
- Keep pets
indoors. Even dogs that would not normally jump over, or dig
under, a secure fenced yard may get out if they are frightened.
- If pets
must be left alone during the holiday, ensure they have a quiet,
comfortable place to stay and leave some soft music on to calm
them. If pets are known to be destructive when they become frightened,
remove any items they may destroy or that may cause them harm.
Pet owners
who will be out of town during the holiday, and using the services
of a professional pet sitter, should talk with their pet sitter
about any special preparations for the holiday. The pet sitter
may need to know things such as how the pet reacts to loud noises,
where the pet should be kept if different than usual, instructions
for any anti-anxiety medications the pet's veterinarian may prescribe,
and any known hiding places the pet has in the home. Pet owners
may also visit PetsitUSA.com for a list of general
preparations to consider when leaving their pets in the care
of a professional pet sitter.
Shelters see
an increase of cats and dogs in their facilities following the
fourth of July. With a little preparation though, pet owners can
ensure their pet is not one of them. "Regardless of whether
or not they think their pet will be frightened, pet owners should
take steps to protect them during this noisy holiday," said
Therese Kopiwoda, founder of PetsitUSA.com. "Taking some
simple precautions to ensure a pet's safety can literally mean
saving the life of a beloved family member."
In addition
to the dangers associated with pets trying to escape Independence
Day sights and sounds, pet owners must be mindful of other potential
holiday hazards. Sparklers and other small fireworks, charcoal,
lighter fluid, alcoholic beverages, and citronella candles can
all be dangerous to pets.
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About PetsitUSA.com
PetsitUSA.com is one of the leading online destinations for pet
owners searching for professional pet sitters, dog walkers, dog
runners, and dog daycares throughout the United States. Based
in Austin, Texas, PetsitUSA.com was launched in 2003 by Therese
Kopiwoda, who also serves a small number of pet sitting clients.
For more information visit www.petsitusa.com.
