Fourth of July fireworks are not just a celebration for humans but a source of fear for dogs, according to recent reports. The loud explosions and unpredictable nature of fireworks often send even the calmest dogs into panic, leading to a significant number of pets going missing during the holiday. Animal shelters across the country report a 60% increase in lost pets between July 4th and July 6th, with July 5th being the busiest day for such incidents.
These incidents are not limited to the Fourth of July; dogs can go missing at any time, making preparation crucial. For instance, Ziggy, a dog from Long Beach, California, ran off during a family visit and was missing for months. His owner, Surely, was devastated, but hope came through Love Lost, a free AI-powered database that helped reuniting Ziggy with his family after five months of separation.
Experts recommend several precautions to keep pets safe during the holiday. Keeping pets indoors, creating a calm environment, checking ID tags, using GPS trackers, and registering with services like Love Lost can significantly reduce the risk of losing a dog. By preparing in advance, owners can enjoy the festivities without the fear of their pets getting lost.