The Kern County Animal Control Department is encouraging Kern County residents to take preventative measures during July 4th celebrations to ensure that pets remain at home, safe, healthy and happy.
Pets often become frightened and frantic by the noise and commotion of July 4th celebrating: excited voices, loud music, fireworks. Frightened pets are at risk of escaping the safety of their normally tranquil environments in search of calmer surroundings.
“Each year during holiday celebrations, Kern County Animal Control takes in a number of “July 4th” dogs – dogs who run off during fireworks celebrations and are rescued by Animal Control Officers or Good Samaritans who bring them to the safety of our shelter,” said Maggie Kalar, Marketing & Promotions Associate. “This year we would like to see the number of animals that enter the shelter during this time period decrease with simple planning and some basic precautionary measures.”
With some advance planning, you can enjoy the excitement of July 4th and know that your pet is safe, sound and enjoying a bit of peace and quiet.
To protect your pet during this July 4th celebration, take these precautions:
• Do not take your pet to fireworks displays.
• Do not leave your pet in the car – with only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects, even death, in a few short minutes. It is also against the law.
• Keep your pets at home, indoors, in a sheltered, quiet area – some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you’ve removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed or ingested. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him/her company while you are away.
• If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises, consult with your veterinarian before the holiday for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he/she will experience during the fireworks display.
• Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn’t leave the yard, may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or even death.
• Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.
• If you plan to go away for the holiday, make sure your pet is properly cared for by a neighbor, relative, or close friend. Make sure that your pet-sitter is aware of these precautions for the holiday as well.
Loud noises, confusion and fireworks are not the only hazards that pets can face during the holiday. Alcoholic drinks, insect repellents, citronella candles, insect coils, oil products, matches, lighter fluid and glow jewelry all have the potential to poison, injure and even kill your pets. Pet owners are urged to take precautions when using these items.

For a downloadable flyer, please visit Kern County Animal Control’s website at www.co.kern.ca.us/acd.