Fireworks can cause pets a lot of stress. Photo: Getty Images
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — July brings two firework-filled holidays to Utah, which experts warn can be stressful for our pets.
Flashing lights and thunderous sounds from fireworks cause pets to get anxious and frightened. According to the Humane Society, the commotion causes some pets to flee and become lost. Pets can also suffer from devastating or even fatal health effects from stress.
Salt Lake County Animal Services wants to help keep your pet feel comfortable and safe in their home and offered some tips to protect your furry friends.
Salt Lake County Animal Services said the most important step is to make sure your dog or cat is microchipped and that the contact information on the microchip is up to date. If you don’t have time to get them microchipped before the holiday, be sure to put a collar and ID tag on them.
If you don’t have a tag for your pet, the shelter said you can put duct tape on their collar and use a permanent marker to put their name and your number on it.
Salt Lake County Animal Services said that nationally, more pets run away on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year, keeping animal control officers extremely busy responding to stray pet calls.
If your pet gets lost, call 801-840-4000 to dispatch an animal control officer. Animal services said it is important to remember that a lost pet is not an unwanted pet.
Information for missing pets can be posted on the Nextdoor App. Pet oweners can also check community groups on Facebook, and look at the “Lost Pets” section on AdoptUtahPets.org.