Fireworks and pets have a plan

Fireworks and Pets Not A Good Combination:

Plan ahead to keep pets safe; owning pets is a huge responsibility, and we must be extra careful for those of us who have equine (donkeys, horses, and mules) living in rural areas. The equine is a flight or fight animal when terrified of death. They can get scared when the fireworks start and the smell is in the air. Some horses have been known to run into fences. Locking them in their stalls is the safest. When neighbors shoot fireworks, I turn the radio up and give lots of hay and fresh water. Donkeys have died from fear, yes, fear. Colic is a life-threatening matter. Donkeys are stoic and will not show pain until it is too late. Do your best to stay calm and keep your donkeys, mules, and horses locked up safe in their stall until the fireworks are over. Long-distance fireworks are not that big of a deal; fireworks right over the farm or barn can kill your equine.

Want to read more tips on pet safety and fireworks? Select Blue Cross Pets Fireworks for more details.

Dogs and cats can get so scared of fireworks that they can run off and not be able to find their way home. It’s best to keep them locked in the house, too. Our doggies get very stressed, turning the radio up helps, some people tranquillize their dogs until the fireworks are over. Do whatever you must to keep your pets safe, as they don’t understand fireworks. Please remember animals do not understand fireworks: “They are terrified and think they will die.” Our job as intelligent humans is to protect and take care of them.

How do you keep your pet(s) safe during the fireworks? Please leave a comment to help others.