City Of San Antonio: Fireworks And Pets Don't Mix

Press release from the City of San Antonio:

December 29, 2021

CONTACT: Lisa Norwood, 210.207.6665
Lisa.norwood@sanantonio.gov

SAN ANTONIO (December 29, 2021) – As San Antonians gear up for family get togethers and upcoming fireworks displays, bear in mind not everyone will be impressed with the holiday celebrations. Pets can become very frightened by all the noise and commotion we take for granted on New Year’s. Planning and using some basic precautions can help make this holiday a festive one for all your four-legged friends.

• Pets don’t like loud noises. Fireworks displays are no place for pets. Leave them at home in a secured, quiet area where they will be safe.
• Give your pet some peace and quiet. A closed off area inside your home can be a blessing for a pet nervous about all the noise and commotion associated with the festivities. Remember! Some pets get destructive when they’re frightened so be sure to remove anything your pet could destroy. Try to provide some toys to occupy your pet. Fresh food and water are a must and a treat or two wouldn’t hurt either!
• NEVER leave pets unattended outside, even in a fenced yard or on a tether. Pets can overreact when they’re scared and that dog who’d never leave your yard before could easily dig a hole under the fence to escape the noise. That fear can also cause your pet to become dangerously entangled in their tether. By LAW, tethered dogs must have a proper collar and cannot be collared with improper restraints like tow chain, wire, or clothesline.
• Protect your pet from pranksters. Many animal cruelty cases start out as what some consider “harmless pranks.” But there’s nothing harmless about shooting fireworks at a pet. Bring outdoors pets indoors, at least for the evening.
• A collar and microchip ID can help your pet get back home if they get lost. Roaming animals stand the risk of being picked up by the city’s Animal Care Officers. Your pet’s ID is more than their ticket home…City licenses are the law and pets must have the legally required rabies vaccination to be licensed.

This press release was produced by the City of San Antonio. The views expressed here are the author’s own.