Keeping Pets Safe during Fourth of July Celebrations
Firework celebrations & neighborhood noises may cause stress for animals
EUGENE, OREGON – (June 30, 2021) – Before heading out to a neighborhood Fourth of July celebration, Greenhill Humane Society wants to remind pet parents of the importance of keeping pets safe and making sure identification information is up to date. As the holiday nears, fireworks are already being heard in many neighborhoods and major firework celebrations will occur the day of.
Recently, The Eugene City Council has voted in favor of a ban on the use of fireworks in the areas south of 18th avenue and east of Agate Street for the rest of 2021 and 2022.
Loud noises, especially over prolonged periods of time, can frighten and confuse animals. While some pets don’t seem to mind, others hide, tremble, or run away. When they are in that state of fear a screen door or fence might not stop a dog that is trying to get away. Unfortunately, every year at this time, many pets and their people get separated.
“It looks like there will be in person events and celebrations happening this Fourth of July which means more people will be away from their home and lots more noise will be present,” say Megan Brezovar, Greenhill’s Community Engagement and Humane Education Manager. “It’s important to ensure your pet is safe inside with curtains drawn and music playing to help keep them calm. If someone loses their pet or finds a lost animal, call your local animal control agency.”
Greenhill Humane Society is the stray intake shelter for most of Lane County. If your pet is missing, please check the shelter’s website, www.green-hill.org, or call 541-689-1503. The shelter’s website is updated in real time as animals are brought to the facility. Greenhill will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the Fourth of July.
In an effort to keep pets safe at home, Greenhill is offering these tips for pet owners:
- Do not bring your pet to fireworks displays.
- When fireworks are being used, keep pets indoors, including outdoor cats. Scared pets may dig under fences, climb fences, or break through gates when spooked by the sound of fireworks.
- Keep your pet in a quiet room, play calming music, or provide other background noise to help soothe them. Shut the windows and curtains and use treats to distract a scared animal.
- For pets that are extremely stressed by fireworks, make an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss medications and other alternatives to help calm your pet before the holiday.
- Make sure your pet is wearing current and accurate identification, even if they are kept inside. A tag with a working phone number can get your pet home much faster. Greenhill recommends a microchip for your pet, in case their collar comes off. If your pet is microchipped, verify that your information is up to date.
If you have lost or found a pet, immediately contact your local animal control office.
• Cottage Grove – Humane Society of Cottage Grove: 541-942-3130
• Eugene – Eugene Animal Services: 541-687-4060
• Unincorporated Lane County – Lane County Animal Services: 541-682-3645
• Springfield – Springfield Animal Control/Police Dept.: 344 A Street: 541-726-3634
• Veneta – Veneta Animal Control/City Hall: 88184 8th street: 541-935-2191
Learn more at http://green-hill.org/lost_and_found_reports/.
To learn more about Greenhill Humane Society or tips on keeping your pets safe on Fourth of July, visit www.green-hill.org.
About Greenhill Humane Society
Greenhill Humane Society has been caring for animals in Lane County since 1944. It is a private, non-profit organization that relies on charitable donations. Greenhill is located at 88530 Green Hill Road in Eugene. We envision a world in which all animals are treated with compassion and respect. To learn more visit www.green-hill.org or follow at Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
