LIMA, Ohio (WLIO)– The Fourth of July is a time for fireworks and fun, but for pets, it can be one of the most stressful times of the year.
Dogs can hear sounds up to four times farther than humans can. The loud noises from fireworks can trigger anxiety and may even cause pain or hearing damage.
“People like to take them to see fireworks, but that is a very, very poor idea,” said Julie Shellhammer, Allen County dog warden. “Dogs may not be socialized to see all of these people along with all the noises, and it's very frightening to them. You want to make sure that you keep them safe and confined at home. And if you do take them, make sure they’re used to these noises ahead of time.”
Shellhammer recommends keeping pets indoors during fireworks shows and turning on the TV or playing music to help mask the noise from outside.
If your dog runs away, she says your first call should be to the dog warden’s office.
“All stray dogs are supposed to come to the dog warden’s office,” she said. “So this needs to be your first call. Even if we’re not open, we do get those messages, and we can get them reunited very quickly.”
To report a stray dog or check if your pet has been found:
Call: (419) 223-8528
Allen County Dog Warden–Primary Line
