Tips to protect furry friends during the Fourth of July

Jul. 1—Fourth of July is an exciting holiday filled with fireworks, family fun, and hot dogs for humans. For animals, the holiday can be a traumatic night filled with fear and confusion. According to Albuquerque shelters, it is the busiest day of the year for intakes.

Sierra Karlich, of Albuquerque, says the holiday is stressful for her and her pit bull, Zil.

The first year Karlich had Zil, she realized the Fourth of July would be a difficult time when her dog attempted to chew off the doorknob of her restroom in a desperate attempt to escape from the loud noises.

"I can't leave her alone on the Fourth because she'll hurt herself. She gets scared, especially by herself, so she tries to escape, even when it's a safe space," Karlich said.

Karlich, like many pet owners, is anxious for her pet's safety during the Fourth of July. Though many people like to go out to celebrate, some pet owners feel the need to stay home to ensure their pet will be OK.

"It can be annoying because I like to celebrate, and I can't go see my friends if they go out. I think what helps is that I understand what's happening and I try to give grace. I would rather be with my dog making sure she feels safe," Karlich said.

The Bernalillo County Animal Welfare Department has issued an advisory with recommendations for owners trying to protect their pets leading up to the Fourth of July.

Jack Hagerman, deputy director of animal welfare, says the Fourth of July causes a massive influx of animals in shelters.

"The Fourth is the biggest holiday for most shelters across the country," he said. "It can be really intense at the shelters. Summer is already a time where there are more strays, so when you add the Fourth to it, there's a huge rush of animals coming in."

Hagerman recommends keeping animals in a safe and indoor space. It's beneficial to play calming music or a television show in the background to distract and muffle the noise of the fireworks.

"Even if your pet likes to be outdoors," he said, "this is not the day to let them outside."

Madison Beets, associate marketing director for the Animal Humane Society of New Mexico, said that roughly one of every five pets that get lost each year go missing during the holiday, and shelters are concerned about taking in more animals.

"We took in 86 pets from the natural disaster in Ruidoso, so we are already getting pretty full," Beets said. "The more pets we can keep in their loving homes, the better."

Hagerman suggests trying to ease a pet's anxiety by giving some one-on-one bonding time. That way, he said, the pet will know you are their safe person and protector.

"You can also ease their anxiety with plenty of toys, music or TV," Hagerman said. "There are a lot of supplements and over-the-counter medications to ease anxiety, but you should always talk to a vet for more information because it really depends on what works best for your pet," he said.

Thunder jackets or tight-fitting shirts can be a calming options for pets, as the compression can lead to a more relaxed animal. However, this depends on the pet. Some may feel restricted by the jacket, according to Bernalillo County Animal Care Services.

Beets said in addition to trying to block out noise, it's a good idea to close up any blinds at home. She also said movies can be a good way to distract animals.

"I've been told by friends that sometimes they play movies with explosions. Pets will associate the noise with the movie and not the fireworks, and sometimes it helps," Beets said.

Hagerman urges people to get their pets microchipped and to verify that microchip information is up to date, as it is the fastest way to reunite an owner and pet. Albuquerque is offering free microchips for dogs and cats up to Wednesday at the Westside and Eastside shelters. No appointment is needed, just a valid I.D.

Currently, shelters are operating at a near max capacity, and Hagerman said staff have concerns about overcrowding after the holiday. He says they will incorporate an intake diversion system to account for strays coming in. For people who want to surrender a pet, the city is asking to hold off and schedule an appointment unless it is an emergency.

Beets is hopeful people can move toward alternative forms of celebration in the future.

"I think drone shows would be a really great way to celebrate without so many fireworks. They have bright lights and can be synced with music. It would be great for pets and people who are sensitive to noise," she said.

Hagerman said if locals find a stray animal, it is best to take them in and let the city know there is a lost dog on your property.

"Most strays are found in the neighborhood, and it can double or even triple the likelihood of them going home if you keep them," he said.

Beets said that if people can do so, report the animal to the city and go door-to-door in your neighborhood to reunite pets and owners.

"Asking neighbors if they recognize pets or if the pet is theirs is a great way to help out," Beets said. "You can always post ads on Facebook and Nextdoor, too," Beets said.