SPCA-LA Offers July 4 Pet Safety Advice

LOS ANGELES, CA — July Fourth fireworks can be a major cause of stress for pets and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles on Wednesday offered tips on keeping pets safe and secure amid the rockets' red glare and bombs bursting in air.

The fear and anxiety caused by fireworks sometimes cause dogs and cats to run off, "which is why so many pets become lost and end up in shelters this time of year," according to the nonprofit animal welfare organization.

SpcaLA offers the following tips:

— Be sure to keep current ID tags on dogs and cats and microchip them if possible;

— Report lost pets to local animal care services department;

— Keep pets indoors and comfortable in a cool, well-ventilated room with soothing music playing softly in the background;

— Make available your pet's favorite toys, a tasty chew or other treats along with a pet bed or blanket for comfort;

— Close windows and curtains to muffle noise and block flashing lights;

— Refrain from tying up a dog to keep them from running off;

— Teach children not to scare or tease pets with firecrackers or sparklers; and

"It is ideal if at least one family member can stay home with the pet, and especially so if you know they will be in distress," according to an SpcaLA news release.