Arctic Spirit Rescue

YES! Please read and make sure you don't overwhelm these dog search groups and shelters any more than they already are.

With the 4th of July coming up, please take a few minutes now to make a plan for your dogs!

Every year, dogs bolt from yards, slip collars, push through doors, jump fences, or panic when fireworks start. Even dogs who are normally calm can react completely differently when the loud booms start.

A few things I strongly recommend:

Bring your dogs inside before dark. Do not wait until the fireworks start.

Potty them early, while it is still light out.

Use a leash, even in a fenced yard. A scared dog can clear a fence, squeeze through a gap, or break through something you never expected.

Make sure collars are secure, and ID tags are up to date.

Have a Fi, Tractive, or other cellular GPS tracking collar? Make sure it's charged BEFORE the 4th.

Check that microchip info is current.

Close windows, blinds, and curtains.

Use a TV, fan, sound machine, or music to help cover the noise.

Set them up in a quiet interior room, crate, basement, bathroom, or wherever they feel safest.

Do not take your dog to fireworks. Even if they are “usually fine,” it is not worth the risk.

If your dog is already known to panic during fireworks, contact your vet before the holiday. Do not wait until the night of.

And one big one: be careful opening doors. A lot of dogs escape when guests come in and out, or when someone opens the door for “just a second.”

If your dog does get loose, get eyes on them if you can, note the exact location and direction of travel, and contact your local police, animal control, shelters, and lost pet groups right away. Remember, most dogs are faster than humans.

The best lost dog search is the one we never have to do. Please plan ahead and keep them safe this week.