Pets and Fireworks Concern in North Georgia

Bob Citrullo, Humane Educational Society,"Bring them inside get a nice blanket, put it in the garage or in basement, keep them contained because animals become very stressed".

With stress comes straying, with shelters claiming this is their busiest time of the year.

Bob Citrullo, Humane Educational Society,"We want to be proactive and prepared when the 4th of July comes or if they are nearby you home you want to take special extra caution if your dog is in the house make sure it has an I.D tag better yet make sure it’s micro-chipped".

The legalization of fireworks in Georgia has put pet owners on red alert.

Staci Schwager, Catoosa Citizens For Animal Care,"We have a Facebook page, Catoosa Citizens for Animal Care if you are in the North Georgia area, Chattanooga Lost & Found pets, that is a great resource also check with your local shelters".

Staci is concerned that animals could run great distances if scared and end up much further than where you thought.

Staci Schwager, Catoosa Citizens For Animal Care,"Don’t look just in your area, beyond your area, if you are in Ringgold look up Whitfield County, Walker county all surrounding including Chattanooga".

This is also a time of great stress for animals that served overseas with many suffering from shell shock and PTSD.

Pet owners are being advised to not voluntarily bring their pets to fireworks displays not only because of their fear but also the risk of overheating in cars.