Kaboom! Pop-pop-pop!

The merriment and celebratory sounds of the coming week signal another festive Fourth of July. While we are outside enjoying the views and a beverage, our four-legged friends might be frantically trying to get away from this confusing cacophony.

Because many of us consider our pets to be a part of the family, it may seem like a good idea to include them in holiday celebrations – especially our sociable canine companions. But for our pets, there are inherent dangers in such gatherings that are easy to overlook when distracted by the fun, conversation, and the arrival and departure of guests.

Dogs can be uncannily adept in finding unattended plates of food or scraps that have fallen unnoticed to the floor or lawn. Likewise, open gates or doors can be a dangerous invitation to set out exploring, or make a fast escape from the noise. Cats, when startled, will often seek places to hide that can be dangerous for them, or will roam into new, unknown neighborhoods.

Whether you are hosting a party or heading over to the park, here are some simple ways to insure your pet stays safe and calm during the fireworks and hoopla of the Fourth.

Fourth of July Safety for Your Cat or Dog

  • Ideally, find a cool, quiet place in your home where your pet can relax during the festivities. Make sure windows and doors with access to the street are closed and secured.
  • Reconsider taking your dog to the fireworks display. The noise levels are potentially terrifying and a scared dog is at greater risk of becoming a lost dog.
  • Never leave your pet in a parked car on a warm summer day, even momentarily.
  • Canines often look for reassurance from their “pack” during stressful events. If you can, rotate doggie-duty between family members to provide reassurance and calming attention to your friend.
  • Store all fireworks, matches, and lighter fluid in a safe, pet-proof place.
  • Bring cats, even if they are normally kept outdoors, inside until the holiday is over.
  • Make sure your pet has up-to-date identification tags. Consider having your pet microchipped – one of the best, most secure ways to get a lost pet back home.
  • Keep food, alcohol, and marijuana away – from your pets (especially dogs). Scan the floor and yard for any errant food spills  your dog will notice! Ask well-meaning guests to avoid the temptation of giving your dog their scraps.
  • Pet drowning is a real risk, as pets may be unable to hoist themselves out. Never leave a pet unattended near a pool, river, or lake.  Consider investing in a life jacket for your canine boating companion.
  • Remember, glow sticks (and other items) are toxic to pets, if ingested.

What about Exotic Pets?

Exotic pets, such as ferrets, chinchillas, and reptiles, don’t always display the obvious cues of stress or anxiety so commonly seen in dogs and cats. Prevention is key by researching your pet’s species-specific stress responses and the risks, as well as creating a calm, safe, and escape-proof environment; and if you have any questions, please give us a call.

If you anticipate anxiety and stress in your pet this Fourth, we can recommend medications and techniques to help alleviate your pet’s fear and potential discomfort.  Please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to provide suggestions to help you and your pet enjoy the holiday.

Happy Fourth of July!