Coastal German Shepherd Rescue would like to remind everyone to keep their pets safe on summer weekend nights if you live in an area with weekend fireworks displays. The loud noises and flashing lights caused by fireworks can spook household pets and cause wildlife to flee their natural habitat, possibly leaving their young behind. Some pets have been known to become so frightened during a fireworks show that they have jumped through glass windows to escape.

Here are a few tips to help keep all animals safe, especially if you are not going to be home!:

• Leave your pets at home. Most pets don't enjoy the noise and flash caused by fireworks and even the most trustworthy pet could become scared and run away.
• Keep pets indoors. It is advisable to close the curtains and turn on the TV or radio to provide some distraction. A quiet place, such as a carrier, may provide your pet with a sense of security and comfort

• If you know your pet usually becomes scared by loud noises, such as thunderstorms, be sure to keep them in a safe room with lots of treats and favorite toys to help them alleviate any anxiety caused by exploding fireworks. You may also like to speak with your vet to find some herbal remedies or tranquilizers that will safely keep your pet calm during stressful times.
• Don't leave your pets in the car during a fireworks display, as the temperatures inside the car may rise dramatically before sundown.
• Take pet for a walk first. If possible, make sure that you pet has time to "use the restroom" before the fireworks start. Some pets are too frightened to void once the fireworks begin, and this may lead to an "accident" later on.
• Don't leave your outdoor pets unattended, even in a fenced yard. The chaos may cause them to panic and hurt themselves trying to escape.
• Use a leash or carrier. If you must be outside with your pet, keep the pet on a leash or in carrier at all times.
• Be sure your pets are wearing proper identification in case they DO become lost during an event. ID tags will help your pet find its way home. Microchips are the most reliable form of ID. Contact your veterinarian about getting one for your pet
• Make sure pet ID is current. Make sure that your pet has proper identification tags, with current information, in case s/he gets away. This will help the local authorities (who are quite busy this time of year handling frightened runaways).
• If you have horses or other animals usually kept in stalls, be sure they are kept calm during the events so they don't injure themselves.
• Practice fire safety. Keep pet away from matches, open fires, and fireworks - especially ones that are lighted on the ground. Pets may try to sniff (or eat) fireworks, and pet hair can easily catch fire if too close to the fireworks.

If your pets do get lost, make sure you check out all your local Shelters. Take photos of your pets and make fliers to post there in case some one has found your pet. Also check with local Veterinary Hospitals. Injured animals are often taken directly to a vet by good Samaritans.

We cannot stress how important it is to prevent your pets from getting loose by making sure they are safe and secure before you leave home!