MORNING HEADLINES | Lowcountry animal shelters are urging pet owners to take precautions to keep their animals safe, as shelters across the country report a spike in lost or injured pets following fireworks shows, cookouts and other holiday festivities.
“It’s pets being scared by fireworks. That’s what we see. The most common thing is dogs getting out of fences, cats getting scared and running,” said Aldwin Roman, vice president and chief operating officer of Charleston Animal Society. Excessive heat and certain foods also pose a danger for pets, he added.
Signs your pet might be feeling anxious during the festivities include shaking, chattering jaws, excessive drooling, hiding or having their tail tucked beneath them.
To prevent your pet from fleeing because of fireworks, dog day care center Camp Bow Wow recommends owners keep their pets in a secluded environment, like a crate or somewhere inside, or to try drowning out the noise by turning on a fan or playing soothing music. And if you’re planning on heading out on the water, Roman suggests leaving your pets at home to avoid any accidents.
If your pet does go missing, officials recommend using Petco Love Lost, a free national database that uses facial recognition to help reunite lost animals with their families.
It’s not just your own pets that are at risk this holiday season, either. Environmentalists are urging beachgoers to protect nesting sea turtles during the holiday weekend.
Several beach safety tips to keep in mind include turning off all lights from dusk to dawn, taking trash with you, removing beach equipment and filling in holes. Experts said the holiday weekend typically sees the highest amount of debris.
“What we do know is that the turtles and other wildlife are impacted by the amount of litter that’s left behind,” said Susan Hill Smith, co-founder of Isle of Palms Cleanup Crew. “It’s becoming a real health issue for turtles, birds, it’s getting into our oceans, and as we know microplastics are becoming an increasing issue.”
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