Paws and Claws: Fireworks can create stress in some pets

by Cindy Anderson, DVM, Animal Care Clinic

Break out your grills, lawn chairs and festive food, because it’s that time of year
again — Independence Day is just around the corner!

The Fourth of July always is a great day to celebrate our nation with friends, family and furry ones alike.

While fireworks are a long-standing tradition for this summer holiday, for some pets,
fireworks are not a reason to party, but a reason to panic. However, with a little
planning, you can ensure that your four-legged friends enjoy the holiday just as
much as you do.

Signs of stress
Some signs that your pet is scared or stressed out by fireworks include salivating and drooling, whining and whimpering, barking and howling and not eating.

Pets also may be trembling and shaking, seeking more attention than normal, scratching to escape from room or area they are in, hiding in a corner or under furniture, or house soiling.

Keeping pets safe
Some tips to keep your pet safe during fireworks include ensuring your pet gets plenty of exercise during the day before the fireworks begin, providing a safe place for them to retreat like their crate or bed and checking on them every few hours.

You also can keep your pets inside with blinds lowered and windows closed and turn on the TV or radio for familiar noise.

Also, try using a Thundershirt, an anxiety treatment jacket to calm your pet.

The staff at Animal Care Clinic, 926 W. Grand River Ave.,  in Williamston, 517-655-5551, will be happy to help you and your pet stay safe during the Fourth of July festivities.

Cindy Anderson, DVM,  is a graduate of MSU Veterinary College (1992) and has practiced veterinary medicine for over 28 years. She traveled to Italy, New Zealand and Manitoba before establishing her own clinic in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.  Dr. Cindy took over duties at the Animal Care Clinic in October 2019 and now spends the majority of her time in the Lower Peninsula helping animals and their owners.