Experts Urge Pet Owners to Prepare for Fourth of July Fireworks

As families prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks, veterinarians and animal advocates are reminding pet owners that the holiday can be one of the most frightening times of the year for dogs and cats.At El Paseo Animal Hospital, Dr. David Jeffries says fireworks create sensory triggers that can cause pets to panic, leading many to run away from home."It's one of the busiest times of the year for us," Jeffries said, noting an increase in requests for anti-anxiety medications to help pets remain calm during the holiday.He says keeping pets indoors and in a quiet, secure space can help prevent them from injuring themselves or escaping through doors, windows, or fences.The concern is backed up by local statistics. Last Fourth of July, more than 1,200 pets entered Riverside County animal shelters, but only about 20 were reunited with their owners.To help improve those numbers, Riverside County Animal Services is offering free microchipping at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus and encouraging pet owners to make sure their pets' identification information is current before the holiday.Dr. Jeffries says the steps are simple but can make all the difference."Pets that get out and run around the street can get hit by cars or encounter other dangers," he said. "It could be the difference between life and death."Veterinarians recommend keeping pets indoors during fireworks displays, providing a quiet place where they feel safe, ensuring collars and ID tags are secure, and considering anti-anxiety medication if recommended by a veterinarian.Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley. For more Coachella Valley News visit NBCPalmSprings.com