GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) — Veterinarians and fire officials are cautioning fireworks enthusiasts to keep pets safe over the weekend.
Pets, but especially dogs, can get scared enough of fireworks to pose a threat to themselves and others, and that they should be kept secure and indoors.
Dr. Margaret Eastman is with Bay East Animal Hospital.
“The most important thing is to keep them secure, so they can’t run off,” said Eastman. “A startled dog will take off and not pay attention to cars or other dogs.”
Dogs that aren’t scared of fireworks may also see them as toys and try to pick them up.
“Even the most well trained dog who’s outside with you in your backyard may take off if they’re not on a leash if the neighbor, you know, shoots off a firework and it startles them,” said Eastman.
Green Bay Metro Fire Department’s Shauna Walesh says it’s better to be safe than sorry.
“With a child you can say that you shouldn’t play with fireworks,” said Walesh. “With pets, you can’t say that.”
Walesh says you should leave the fireworks to the professionals.
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