While you are planning your July 4th activities, remember the family member who may not enjoy the fireworks display this year — your pet pig. There is no doubt fireworks are scary for pets that do not understand what is going on. Loud noises can panic your pig. Fireworks can create an adrenaline surge for your pet that may cause your pig to bolt out an open door as it tries to get away from the unusual noise.
To help reduce your pig's level of stress during the noisy Fourth of July celebrations, it is wise to leave your pig at home and not take it to a fireworks display. This may seem self-evident, but many owners may be out enjoying an afternoon in a park or a barbecue with their pet and forget that as evening approaches the firecrackers start. Because many displays are in public areas, you need to identify if there will be the noise of fireworks before you take your pig with you.
Should your pig be an outdoor pet, and even if it is secure at home, bring your potbelly inside for this one night. A frightened pig can push through your fence that works well for restraint under normal circumstances. It may injury itself trying to get away from the noise of the neighborhood firecrackers. Even after the official fireworks display is over, there's no guarantee that your neighbors are finished with their celebration, so it is safer to keep your pig inside all night. Whether your pig lives inside or outside be sure your pig wears its harness with an ID tag attached, just in case it should get out of its secure area.
Should your pig become afraid from the loud fireworks noises it is best not to cuddle and reassure your pet. Cuddling will only reinforce the fear your pig is feeling. Instead, distract your potbelly by doing something it really enjoys. Give your pet pig a belly rub while watching TV inside, feed your pet a favorite food or a special treat for tricks you have your pet perform. Remember to have fun with your pet and do not forget to praise your potbellied pig for tricks well done.
Should your pig seek shelter under its blankets, in its bed or in some enclosed dark space, it is best to defer to your pet’s judgment. Leave your pig alone until it is ready to rejoin the family. If you plan on not being home during the evening hours of the Fourth of July, put your pig in a secure room with it bed and blankets. Close the door, pull down the shades and play some soothing music to comfort your pet while you are away.
© Kathleen Myers 2000, All Rights Reserved Worldwide
