Every year on July 5th animal shelters around the country see an increase in the number of stray dogs. This is due directly to canine companions escaping from houses, yards and even leashes while they are being walked, when they become frightened by the sight and sound of fireworks. The following are some tips on how to help keep your dog safe on the Fourth of July.

1. Make sure your dog has his collar and ID tags on.
2. Make sure you have a current photograph of your dog available to hand out to neighbors should he become lost.
3. If possible, stay home with your dog – especially if he is prone to storm anxiety or has shown signs of anxiety with fireworks in the past.
4. Do not take your dog to a fireworks display.
5. If at all possible keep your dog in a secure area indoors. If he is used to being crated, that is the best place for him. If not, crating him could actually increase his anxiety. If your dog will be loose in the house, it is a good idea to close the shades and curtains and turn all the lights on so that he will not notice the flashing of the fireworks. Also turn the TV on and increase the volume a bit so that the ka-booms and whistles will be muted.
6. If you are unable to keep your dog indoors or he is not used to being inside, make sure his outdoor area is secure. Dogs that do not normally jump over, dig under or chew through fences have been known to do this when fireworks begin. Tethering your dog during fireworks can be dangerous. In a panic, he may become entangled in the tether and choke.
7. If your dog does get out and becomes lost start looking for him as soon as you discover he is gone. Because he will be in a panic, he could go farther than he normally would in a much shorter period of time. On the contrary, he may be hiding under a bush on your front porch – too scared to come out.
8. Contact Tri-City Animal Shelter the following day at 972-291-5335 to see if your dog has been brought in. It is always best to come to the shelter and look for yourself. If your dog is not at the shelter, fill out a lost report and attach a picture of your dog to the report.
9. Check at the shelter every day to see if your dog has been brought in.
10. Don’t give up!