Archive for July, 2009

Based on article “Is your cat left or right pawed?” my cat Mia, “The Princess” is right handed.  At this writing she is sleeping away this dreary day (rain and clouds again).  And we did not get much sleep with the deluge of rain overnight.  So I cannot test her with “dexterous feats” to confirm this finding right now. But once she awakens I will refrain from testing her with the toy mouse or string to confirm these findings and break out the tuna instead.  So stay tuned….

My cat, “The Princess”, (Miss) Mia just waltzed inside after the cannon went off signaling sundown.  This reminded me of course of preparation for the upcoming fireworks on Saturday, for the 4th of July celebration.  I have commiserated with a few other pet owners of what a miserable time it is for our beloved pets.  It is most important to plan ahead for your pet’s safety so both you and they can have a stress free Holiday.

To protect your pet on the Fourth of July, take these precautions:

• Resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays.
• Do not leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects—even death—in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.
• Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you’ve removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him company while you’re attending Fourth of July picnics, parades, and other celebrations.
• If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.
• Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn’t leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.
• Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.

Source: Humane Society of the United States