BEND, OR -- This is a busy time of year for animal shelters, "We at the Humane Society see a huge influx of animals who have runaway or got frightened and confused during fireworks," says Lynne Ouchida, with the Humane Society of Central Oregon, "So that week surrounding the Fourth of July is just a time that we’re inundated with strays."

She says dogs and cats scared by fireworks can run away and end up miles from home, "Never leave them in your backyard or unattended. Even if they’re in a fenced yard they normally stay in, all it takes is one frightening firework - it could be a neighbor, illegal fireworks," Ouchida tells KBND News.

She suggests only taking them out on a leash during fireworks - or even summer thunderstorms. And if you do have to leave them, put them in an interior room, "Like a bathroom with a radio going, or keep them in a back bedroom with a TV going; something soothing and something distracting."
There are medications that can help ease pet anxiety, but Ouchida says, "Talk to your veterinarian now, not when it’s happening. There are a lot of medications, but those medications need to be tested, they need to be adjusted. There’s different options that will be best for your dog and sometimes even cats, as well. But do it now. July third is too late."

Community fireworks displays take place July Fourth at around 10 p.m. at Pilot Butte State Park, the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, La Pine Frontier Days, Prineville at Ochoco Wayside Park, Madras High School and on July second at Vince Genna Stadium in Bend. Ouchida suggests keeping dogs away from those professional shows, even if you think they enjoy it. It just takes one unexpected loud noise to traumatize a pet. 

And, make sure your animal’s tags and microchip information are current, so you can be reunited if they do run off.