4th of July Lost Pet Preparedness

Do you know what day is historically the busiest day of the year in animal shelters all across the country? It’s the FIFTH of July.

Do you know why? Yup, you guessed it…fireworks! According to the ASPCA, the National Council on Pet Population Study

and Policy estimates that less than 2% of cats and only 15-20% of dogs entering shelters are ever reunited with their families!

You can help prevent your pet from getting lost and recover them faster by paying attention to the following:

Recognize and decrease your pet’s stress and anxiety

Appreciate that cats and dogs may show anxiety or stress in a variety of different ways. Pay attention and learn to recognize these signs for what they may indicate. Signs may include any or all of the following: Panting, Drooling, Pacing, Hiding, Decreased appetite, Abnormal urinations or defecations, Dilated pupils, and Excessive grooming.

Keep your pets indoors and secure your home & yard

Keep all cats and dogs indoors on and around the 4th of July. You never know when the fireworks displays will begin or end – they often start a few days before and extend several days beyond. Keep all windows and doors securely closed. Block off all pet doors and ensure that all yard gates are intact and securely closed.

Effectively restrain and maintain control over dogs out for a walk on and around the 4th

You never know when an impromptu fireworks display is going to happen. Be sure that your dog is leashed up every time they leave your house and be sure to attach their leash before you open the door!

Ensure that all pets – even indoor cats – have legible and up-to-date identification

Microchips are important, for all pets. Speak with your veterinarian about having it done – the only time it’s too late is once they’ve already disappeared. The QR code ID tag by PetHub (www.PetHub.com) is an excellent means of identifying your pets. The tag comes with a personalized webpage for your pets and the QR code enables anybody with a smartphone to scan your lost pet.

Conduct an effective and thorough search for any pets that go missing

Always have recent photos of your pets handy. Enroll your neighbors to keep an eye open for your missing pet in the neighborhood. Contact all veterinary clinics, hospitals and animal shelters in your area; don’t forget about your local pet emergency hospitals. Plaster your neighborhood and town with Lost Pet posters. And be sure to include a way for people to get in touch with you! Post a “lost pet notice” on Craigslist and Reddit, and check back daily.

Dr. Jason Nicholas, BVetMed Be aware. Be prepared. Be Preventive! ™

*Posted from pethub.com*