FAYETTEVILLE, WV (WOAY) – Pets are major parts of our family, and especially around the 4th of July holiday, it’s important to keep your pet safe and comfortable during the festivities.
The New River Humane Society says July 5 is typically every shelter’s busiest day of the year when pets go missing a significant influx of runaway dogs and cats come into the shelter.
“We tend to see a higher intake of strays animals that come to this shelter who gotten lose from their homes in fear of the fireworks and all the excitement that’s going on,” said New River Humane Society Rescue Coordinator Kiley Price.
Price says there are ways to keep your pets safe during the celebration.
“I recommend putting your animal in a very safe claim place, preferably not outside, but inside in a secure room with background noise with their familiar with,” said Price.
If your pet does happen to take off, make sure they have the proper identification, like a collar with a tag or microchip, which makes it easier for someone to return your pet home safely.
“I would definitely recommend always to have a pet ID tag on their collar, or even microchipping is great as well, so if someone does find your dog, they know who to call if you can stay home with your pet that’s wonderful. If you can’t resist the temptation of going out to the fireworks, then I would recommend keeping them safe and secure inside or in a crate,” said Price.
The New River Humane Society will be open from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, the Fourth of July. If your pet is missing, check the shelter’s Facebook page.
