As Independence Day celebrations approach, the City of Muscatine and the Muscatine Police Department are reminding residents to take extra precautions to protect their pets during fireworks season.
While fireworks are a holiday tradition, the loud booms, bright flashes and unexpected noises can cause extreme stress and anxiety for pets. Each year around the Fourth of July, animal owners report an increase in missing pets as frightened dogs and cats escape from homes and yards.
“Every year around the Fourth of July, we see a spike in reports of missing pets,” said Capt. Jeff Jirak of the Muscatine Police Department. “Dogs and cats may bolt through open doors, dig under fences or injure themselves trying to escape the noise.”
Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe
- Keep pets indoors. Create a quiet, secure space away from windows where they can feel safe. A familiar crate or enclosed room can provide comfort.
- Reduce outside noise. Play soft music, turn on the television or use a white noise machine to help mask the sound of fireworks.
- Update identification. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with current identification tags and that microchip information is up to date.
- Leave pets at home. Avoid taking animals to fireworks displays, where loud noises and large crowds can quickly overwhelm them.
- Talk to your veterinarian. If your pet experiences severe anxiety during fireworks, ask about prescription medications or other approved calming options.
If Your Pet Goes Missing
If your pet becomes lost or you find a stray animal, contact the Muscatine Police Department at 563-263-9922. Posting a recent photo and description on local lost-and-found pet social media pages can also help reunite pets with their families more quickly.
“We all want to enjoy the holiday, and that includes keeping our pets safe and stress-free,” Jirak said. “A little preparation goes a long way in preventing heartache.”
Additional pet fireworks safety information is available from the American Veterinary Medical Association.
