Here’s How To Help Your Pet Cope With Fourth Of July Fireworks

The Fourth of July is right around the corner... Is your pet scared of fireworks?

If you do have a pet that's scared of fireworks, the Ingham County Animal Control and Shelter has some pointers on how to handle the situation:

1) Keep your pet indoors - If you've got a pet that's afraid of fireworks, there's no reason to take them outside unless you absolutely need to. Leave them inside, in an interior room if possible.

2) Stay with your pet - By staying with your pet, you can help reduce their anxiety by petting and talking to them. Talking to them may also help distract them from the noise outside.

3) Play some music - The music may help distract your fur baby from the loud noises going on outside.

4) Make sure your pet is wearing current licenses and ID tags and are microchipped - A HUGE amount of pets get lost around the Fourth of July; the loud noises and shakes from fireworks can cause animals to run off. That's why it's so important to make sure that if they do get lost, they can be found and identified.

5) Try a "thunder jacket" - A "thunder jacket" is a life vest looking contraption that when worn, can help reduce a pet's anxiety when it comes to loud noises. The thunder jacket fits snugly around your pet, providing a bit of pressure and weight, which helps to calm your animal.

I hope this help you and your pet deal with the upcoming fireworks! Have a happy and safe Fourth of July!