| Fourth of July Festivities: Should You Bring Your Pet? |
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| AUGUSTA REGIONAL SPCA |
33 Archery Lane Staunton, VA 540-885-SPCA
| SHELTER HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY 11AM - 4PM WEDNESDAYS OPEN UNTIL 6:30PM CLOSED SUNDAYS |
As the country dons its red, white and blue to celebrate Independence Day, nothing says patriotism like a good old-fashioned barbecue with a side of fireworks. But beware pet parents, what’s fun for people can be a downright drag for our furry friends. The ASPCA recommends keeping your pooch indoors as much as possible during backyard parties and Fourth of July festivities, even if he is a pro picnicker. From toxic food and beverages to raucous guests and fireworks, the holiday weekend is a minefield of potential pet problems. “Even the most timid dog can leap a six-foot fence if he’s spooked by loud noises,” says Dr. Pamela Reid, Vice President of the ASPCA Animal Behavior Center. If your dog shows signs of distress from fireworks or boisterous revelers, Dr. Reid suggests giving him a Kong toy stuffed with peanut butter. “The consistent licking should calm his nerves,” she says. ~ source - the ASPCA website ~ |
| The shelter will be closed to the public on Saturday, July 4th, and reopen at 11 am on Monday, July 6th |