In the City of Eugene, personal fireworks are legal and, as the July 4 holiday gets closer, there will be more people using fireworks. For many pets, this time of year is scary and potentially dangerous. Fireworks, loud noises, and large gatherings of family and friends can all serve as catalysts for pet incidents including lost or injured pets, as well as bites.
Plan for Your Pet’s Safety
Fireworks and Noise
- Make sure pets are secured in a safe and quiet place during times when fireworks will be going off.
- If a pet is extremely sensitive, call your veterinarian ahead of time to check if medication may help keep them calm. Carefully monitor any pet on medications.
- Secure animals away from any area where you will be setting off fireworks. If your pet is sensitive, or if you don’t know how they will react to the noise of fireworks, secure them in a quiet, peaceful location.
- Don’t let any pets chase fireworks.
- At parties: Be aware that children with food in their hands are at risk of bites by dogs reaching for food and ensure the children are protected.
- Outside your home: Keep dogs on a leash.
Crowds
- Anticipate your pet’s reactions to unusual activities and people at parties.
- If your pet is not used to crowds and/or does not know visitors, introduce them carefully and monitor their activity and comfort level. If there is a potential problem, address it by securing them in a safe place away from activities.
- Dogs can misread horseplay between people as an attack and become protective of their loved ones, which can lead to bites.
Other Animals
- Ensure your dog is safe from other dogs that are loose, and keep them at a distance.
- Be aware that breaking up a dog fight is risky and that owners are frequently bitten when intervening.
Help for Lost and Found Pets
Remember to License your Eugenean
The average cost for a one year dog license is $18.
- License in person at most local veterinary offices and the 1st Avenue Public Shelter
- License online
- License by phone at 855-328-1400
Read about the City of Eugene's Animal Services program.