CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Many people enjoy shooting off fireworks at home over the 4th of July weekend, but these noisemakers can cause distress for many pets.
Pet owners should be aware of the risks and take measures to keep their furry friends safe.
Jeanette Farrell, Director of Montgomery County Animal Care and Control (MCAC), said this upcoming holiday weekend is typically the busiest of the year for the shelter.
“This is the number one time of year when dogs go missing because they are scared of all the noises and lights of fireworks,” she said.
Many dogs, even those who are typically calm, can be frightened by fireworks and will run as far away from the noise as possible.
Due to the influx of missing dogs expected over the weekend, many dogs have to be euthanized in advance to create extra space for the missing.
“It’s unfair to those dogs being euthanized,” Farrell said.
Pet owners whose animals are picked up and taken to the shelter over the weekend will be unable to claim them until Tuesday because the county facility will be closed for the holiday.
“This is another reason why pet licensing would be beneficial,” Farrell said. “If they had a license, the Animal Control officer could contact the owner right away and take them home.”
Farrell suggests that pet owners keep their dogs indoors as much as possible and avoid taking them to outdoor festivities during the holiday weekend.
MCAC can be contacted at 931-648-5750.