How to Keep Your Dog Safe on July 4

With hearing sometimes 20 times more sensitive than humans, it is no wonder the Fourth of July falls low on a dog’s list of favorite holidays.

Here are a few tips from the Mission Viejo Animal Shelter to help you keep your pets safe this holiday.

• Keep them home. Because the fireworks are loud and can even damage a dog's hearing, do not take them with you.  Leave them indoors in a safe and secure room.  
• Do not leave pets outside, even in a fenced yard they could easily escape because they are so terrified by the noise.
• Keep them safe indoors. Leave a television or radio on, which may help block out the sound of fireworks. Make sure all windows are closed.
• Keep proper ID on your pets. Have your dog's tag on at all times and microchip both dogs and cats.  If they do escape from your home, Mission Viejo Animal Services can get them back quickly to you with the proper identification.
• Treats. Human foods and other Fourth of July treats can be harmful to your pets as well as alcoholic beverages.  Keep those items in a place that your pet cannot get to and don't allow others to give your pets human food as treats.

The Mission Viejo Animal Shelter will be closed on July 4, but staff will be available for emergencies. Call the Orange County Sheriff's Department Dispatch at 714-288-6742 with any emergencies.