Natal Day fireworks expected to keep Nova Scotia Lost Dog Network busy
When fireworks fly in the sky, Janet Chernin becomes more dogged about her job — and Natal Day weekend can be one of her busiest weekends of the year.
Chernin co-runs the Nova Scotia Lost Dog Network. It's her job to help owners find their missing dogs. She does that through an online network of volunteers.
She says two big reasons dogs go missing this time of year are fireworks and thunderstorms.
"We've had dogs scale six-foot fences. We've had dogs break out of outdoor kennel runs. We've had dogs actually jump through screen windows."
Who let the dogs out?
When thunder and lightning storms rolled through the province last weekend, Chernin received 19 reports of missing dogs. That's more than double what she usually sees on a good weather weekend.
Even more dogs go missing because of fireworks, Chernin says. Next to Canada Day, Natal Day is her busiest time of year.
Luna, a three-year-old golden retriever who bolted from her owners five years ago, sticks out in her mind. Her owners were Austrian tourists watching the Natal Day fireworks from Citadel Hill in Halifax. They had to return home without their dog. Luna was eventually found, days later.
Chernin says backyard fireworks can be just as bad as big displays.
"Even if you have your dog on a tether line, dogs can break a tether line pretty quickly when they are in total fear," she says.
"Fido and fireworks don't add up."
When there is a pending storms or planned firework display, Chernin's top tip is to keep your pets at home and inside where they are secure.
Helpful tips
What you can do to keep your dog calm:
- Give them a space in the home that's quiet and calm.
- Draw the curtains, close the blinds or keep dogs in a windowless room.
- Play classical music.
- Try gentle massage, especially the tips of the dog's ears.
- Use a Thundershirt, vet wrap or tensor bandage to deliver constant, gentle pressure.
What to do when your dog is lost:
- Get down low to the ground and approach your dog slowly.
- Gently call your dog's name with a singsong, happy tone.
- Don't yell the dog's name; yelling creates anxiety.
- Bring your dog's favourite squeaky toy and squeak it.
- Avert your gaze, do not stare — dogs see that as a challenge.
