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Fourth of July celebrations complete with fireworks can be a source of family fun, but for our pets they can sometimes cause anxiety, fear and confusion.
The holiday weekend means a full house at the animal shelter.
Most of us associate the Fourth of July with flashes of brilliant light, cracks and loud booms. But for household pets, the cheerful celebrations are not always shared.
Nilsa Carter, the director of Salt Lake County Animal Services, said, "The ones that are scared of fireworks, they just get freaked out. They start pacing. They'll go through windows. They'll fight you and try to get off the leash."
That's exactly what happened to Glenda Kidd's Chihuahua/Jack Russell mix.
"He's really hyperactive. He's kind of a beige color. He has a white triangle on his forehead," she said.
Startled by fireworks near Sugahouse Park, 6-month-old "Relapse" wiggled out of his leash and took off.
"I just want to find him. I just love this little puppy," Glenda said.
Glenda is just one of many people visiting shelters, hoping to find a lost pet. In just the last week, Salt Lake County Animal Services has seen a 15 percent increase in the number of dogs and a 25 percent increase in the number of cats that have come into the shelter.
Carter said, "We have been busy all morning."
And with every fireworks holiday, it's the same story. There are almost 200 new dogs and cats in this shelter alone.
"We got this young lady in on the Fourth of July. She's about 2 years old," Carter said of one animal.
But sadly, not every pet is found right away.
Glenda Kidd said, "If you have him, I know he's friendly, but please bring him back."
With Pioneer Day coming up this month, experts recommend owners be extra cautious and consider the needs of our fury friends. They say make sure your animal is wearing a snug collar with identification. If they're afraid of fireworks, keep them in a room where they feel safe. And if you do happen to lose a pet, quickly check the local shelters.
Get more information at the link on this page.
E-mail: wjohnson@ksl.com
