Trusted local news leader for Prescott area communities since 1882
Tue, May 21

Police urge people to keep pets safe during fireworks

The Prescott Valley Police Department urges residents to keep pets safe during fireworks displays during Independence day and throughout the summer, Prescott Valley Police Sgt. Brandon Bonney said.

Independence Day celebrations bring large firework displays as well as the illegal use of fireworks by citizens, which can cause animals react in extreme ways, Bonney said.

"Dogs that would normally stay in their yard may escape and run away to due to the extreme noise," Bonney said. "Animals are known to defeat leashes, fences and other means designed to keep them contained."

Dogs have chewed through doors and broken windows because of their fear, which can lead to your animal being injured or lost, Bonney said.

"If possible, someone should be with the animals to help calm them during the fireworks displays," Bonney said.

Also remember to provide your pets shelter from the summer heat and rain as well as check and refresh pets outside water sources daily.

Do not leave animals in vehicles, because the heat inside vehicles can rise to deadly temperatures in a manner of minutes, Bonney said.

"You may only expect to go inside a store for a minute, but many people can be detained by friends, medical issues, and long lines," Bonney said.

When it's 85 degrees outside, even with car windows slightly open, the temperature inside can climb to 102 degrees in 10 minutes and to 120 degrees in a half hour, said Prescott Animal Control Supervisor Shannon Gray.

A dog can only withstand a body temperature of 107 for a short period of time before suffering irreparable brain damage, heart problems, liver damage, or even death, Gray said.

"If it's too hot for you to sit in the car, then it's too hot for your dog," Gray said.

If it is a particularly warm day, owners should consider leaving their pet at home where it's cool, or take another person along to sit in the car with the dog while running the air conditioner, Gray said.

If you have any questions regarding your pet's welfare, you can contact your local animal control officer. Prescott Valley residents can contact PVPD Animal Control at 928-772-5190.


This Week's Circulars

To view money-saving ads...