SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) – As you head to the store to finalize your 4th of July BBQ list, make sure an ID is on there for your pet if they do not already have one. According to the Humane Society of St. Joseph County, July 5 and 6 are their biggest days for intakes as animals run away due to all the loud noises.
In addition to a tag, make sure your pet has a microchip. If you do not have either, for the time being, use some tape and write your name and phone number on it. Then, put it on your animal’s collar. This way, they can be returned to you quickly if they get out.
What can we do to prevent our pets from getting anxiety due to the loud noises or from getting out? First, find a quiet place for them to stay. This is a space where you can close the blinds and windows, keep lights on and have some background noise. Another idea is to make sure you keep them busy.
“My dogs, they love the kongs filled with peanut butter or lick mats, puzzle toys, those sorts of things because if they are busy and the they are thinking about other things, they are not going to be as anxious or worried about everything else going on around them,” explains Humane Society of St. Joseph County Executive Director, Genny Carlson.
If your pet is going to be part of the 4th of July festivities, make sure they are on a leash. If they are going to be in your backyard, make sure the yard is secure. If you have guests coming over, remind them that your pet may try to slip out. Encourage extra attention to doors and windows. As an owner, make sure all access points are secure.
What happens if your pet runs away? You are asked to contact all area shelters as you do not know where your animal may have been taken. You are also encouraged to fill out a lost report on the humane society’s website.
What do you do if you find a stray? Fill out a found report. The Humane Society of St. Joseph County is also encouraging you to hold onto the stray, if you can, until the owner is found. Why? Because the shelter is already full. This will certainly help them.
Posting on social media, specifically the lost animal sites is also encouraged, but pets running away is not your only worry!
“Temptation is going to be there to give a hot dog to your pet or let them drink what you are drinking, those sorts of things, keep their diet the same. Try not to give any kind of table scraps because an emergency vet bill is going to be a lot more expensive than that hot dog that you give them,” continues Carlson.
If you need advice or see an animal in need, you are encouraged to call the humane society. They will be closed for the 4th, but
