WILLIAMSBURG — That adorable little beagle mix with the ’80s-inspired name is back to showcase local businesses, educate and promote pet health and bring a smile to faces.
But this week, Ferris has a bone to pick.
With our human companions ready to celebrate Independence Day, this “Fido” isn’t excited about those fireworks.
Fourth of July can be a scary time for family pets. Maybe there will be lots of people are coming to celebrate at a party, new foods smells coming from the grill or an adventure to a place never explored before.
Keep an eye on your furry friends — don’t allow them near the picnic table where an opportunist, like this beagle, can grab a sample to try.
Make sure harnesses and leashes are secure and that your pet is under control at all times.
Keep plenty of fresh, cool water and shade available as temperatures rise.
And then, there are those frightful boomers in the sky to contend with.
The American Kennel Club states July 4 is the day most dogs go missing and provides the following tips to keep your canine safe:
- Make sure your dog or cat always has access to a comfortable, quiet and safe place to hide. Either a closet, under a piece of furniture or in a crate.
- Keep toys and long-lasting treats in your pet’s safe area to make the area more fun and to provide distractions from loud noises and flashes.
- Make time to exercise your pet during daylight hours; then, keep them safely indoors before the fireworks begin.
- At dusk, close your windows and curtains and turn on music or the television to muffle the loud noises that accompany social gatherings and the booming thunder from fireworks.
- Pets convey fear by shivering, cowering, tucking their tail between their legs, and averting their eyes. Looming over a fearful dog will only make it more anxious; and unless a dog is likely to get hurt it is usually best to leave a fearful dog alone because its behavior when scared is uncertain. And, never punish a pet if they are scared.
- If your pet has a demonstrated history of noise phobia, contact your veterinarian. There are helpful calming medications that you can give to your pet an hour or two before the fireworks begin.
- Make sure your pet’s microchip enrollment information is up to date in case your pet manages to escape.
Wishing the community a happy (and safe) Independence Day!
