How to Keep Pets Calm During Fireworks Season In Texas

(Mix 93-1)  Seeing how fireworks season is here, pet owners across Texas will be comforting their pets more than normal, and that goes for me.

Here lately, my dog has been reacting to the loud June thunderstorms by calmly walking to, opening the door, and hiding out in her kennel until the storm moves on.

Why Fireworks Terrify Pets

With more loud booms to come, thanks to my neighbors setting off fireworks in the city, my dog will again be seeking out the comfort of her kennel until the booms come to an end.

Most of us know that setting off fireworks within the city limits is against the law. There are still those people who drop quite a few bills on some big fireworks and will end up setting them off in the street of your neighborhood, in effect terrifying a bunch of animals.

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As we celebrate our nation's independence with legally purchased explosives, the anxiety level in our dogs and cats rises dramatically during this time of the year.

From the first crackle of the sparkler to the last big concussive sound of that mortar shell, dogs and cats will be scurrying around the house trying to find some place to hide. In some cases, outside dogs may jump fences to try get away from the noise and run off and get lost.

If you know your pet is prone to disappearing like Houdini, it might be a good idea to bring them indoors, stay at home with them, and be their protector for the evening. You might even consider wrapping them in a blanket or a 'thunder jacket'.

How to Create a Calming Environment

The ASPCA offers up these tips to help calm your dog during fireworks season. You may be able to ease their nerves as your unruly neighbors are setting off fireworks in the middle of the street:

• turn on a radio a little louder than normal
• leave the TV sound up
• give them their favorite toy
• place them in their crate in an interior room with a blanket

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A post shared by Humane Society for Hamilton County (@hamiltonhumane)

In the event your pet does escape and runs away, there's a pretty good chance one of your neighbors will see them and hopefully take them in until you come looking for them.

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What to Do If Your Pet Runs Away

Remember, if they do run off put it out there on social media that your dog went missing on the 4th or that you found a healthy-looking, friendly dog and took it in for a while. Of course, you can always check one of the animal shelters in Tyler, Longview and Jacksonville too.

Make Sure Your Pet Has ID

Protect your pet this 4th of July and keep them comfortable. Above all, make sure they are wearing a tag that has their name and your contact phone number on it.