July 5 is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters around the country as many pets, spooked by fireworks on the Fourth of July, run away from home.
Behavior specialists at the Arizona Humane Society said pet owners can try to desensitize their animals from fireworks. They recommend pet owners play a recording with the sound of fireworks at a low level. Feed your pet coveted treats including hot dogs and chicken while the recording of fireworks is playing and stop feeding them treats once the recording is done. Gradually increase the volume of the recording over many sessions. If your pet exhibits fear or anxiety during this training then stop the recording immediately and begin it next time at a lower volume.
Furry friends can wear ThunderShirts, which are calming wraps that deliver constant, gentle pressure to a dog’s torso to help them feel safe.
If you see an animal in distress, call the Arizona Humane Society’s Emergency Animal Medical Technicians at 602-997-7585, ext. 2073.
