Judy Montero

Denver ’s Animal Care & Control Division has a few tips for pet owners to ensure that their animals don’t get harmed or stressed out by the fireworks:

• Don’t take your pet to firework displays.
• Do not leave your pet in the car. Opened windows do not provide sufficient air.
• Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you’ve removed any fragile items. Also leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep them company.
• Provide a safe “escape” place. Pets will seek out a small den-like place, such as a crate, if they are fearful or stressed. It is recommended to create that safe place and familiarize your pet with it before needed, to reduce stress during fireworks.
• License and microchip your pet. If for some reason your pet escapes, make sure your pet is licensed and microchipped. Having identification will increase the likelihood that your pet will be returned to you if lost.
• Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn’t leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.
• Use a leash or carrier. If you must be outside with your pet, keep the pet on a leash or in carrier.
• Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.
• Plan ahead. If you plan to go away for the holiday weekend, arrangements should be made to ensure that your pet is properly taken care of in your absence.

For more information about the Denver Municipal Animal Shelter, or to obtain a pet license online, visit www.denvergov.org/animalcare.