As the 4th of July nears, local humane societies are asking pet owners to pay extra attention to pet safety.
Fireworks and other explosions can scare animals and cause them to try to escape enclosures.
Megan Brezovar with the Greenhill Humane Society in Eugene said securing pets is vital.
“It’s a dangerous time for animals because when they do flee, they go missing, and we see a lot of lost-and-found animals during the 4th of July time,” Brezovar said. “The best thing that every pet owner could do is be preventative; put their animals in a safe, cool place.”
Brezovar also advises against bringing any pets to a fireworks show.
“The most important thing is to please do not bring your pet out to a fireworks celebration,” Brezovar said. “Leave them at home to be calm and safe while you have a good time.”
Pets should be kept indoors during the holiday, and quiet, calm spaces are best for soothing scared animals.
Making sure identification tags and chips are up-to-date is another way to keep your pet safe.
If you lose or find a pet, contact your local humane society.