How To Keep Pets Safe During 4th Of July Fireworks In Virginia

VIRGINIA—While the Fourth of July is packed with fireworks, barbecues and more fun, the chaos can be stressful for your pets. In fact, Fourth of July is among the top times for pets getting lost, according to the American Kennel Club's pet ID and recovery service.

Fireworks and other loud noises can terrify pets, which can lead them to escaping and getting lost. The Fairfax County Animal Shelter says there's usually an increase in stray pets coming to the shelter on Fourth of July.

"It's vital that pet owners plan ahead to help their pets feel as safe and calm as possible on July 4th and through the weekend, when festivities may continue," says Dr. Karen Diviney, the Fairfax County Animal Shelter director. "The Shelter is prepared for a large number of stray pets, but we hope that by sharing this information, all pets will stay safely in their homes."

Here are some tips from the Fairfax County Animal Shelter to protect your pet:

• Leave pets home and inside during festivities. Fireworks can be terrifying, even to pets who normally do well around crowds and noises.
• Never shoot off fireworks of any kind near your pet.
• Provide a blanket-covered crate or a room with a comfy bed in a hidden spot to give your pet a sense of security. A pet-proof interior room without access to the outside is best.
• Keep them busy. Provide enrichment activities to distract them, such as long-lasting treats or a frozen peanut butter-filled Kong.
• Play music. Soothing music can both calm pets and help drown out the noise of fireworks and parties.
• Make sure that your pets are wearing collars with ID tags and are microchipped, and make sure the information is updated and accurate, just in case your pets do escape and get lost.
• Stay home with them, if possible. You're the best security blanket.

If you've lost your pet, contact your local animal shelter. Note that shelters may be closed on Fourth of July.

• Animal Welfare League of Alexandria: 4101 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22304

• Animal Welfare League of Arlington: 2650 S. Arlington Mill Drive, Arlington, VA 22206

• Fairfax County Animal Shelter: 4500 West Ox Road Fairfax, VA 22030

• Loudoun County Animal Shelter: 39820 Charles Town Pike Waterford, VA 20197

• Prince William County Animal Shelter: 14807 Bristow Road, Manassas, VA 20112

• Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter: 450 TV Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22408

• Stafford County Animal Shelter: 26 Frosty Lane, Stafford, VA 22554