The Fourth of July holiday is always a great time to celebrate with friends and family — and that often includes pets. You may be looking forward to hosting a party, spending time outdoors at a parade, or enjoying a fireworks show. Some people even like to include their pets in their fourth plans; which we love since we’re dog owners ourselves! But, if your pets are involved with your plans this year, we wanted to go over a few pet safety tips to help keep your fur-family safe and happy during your July 4th events.
1.Fireworks Can Be Scary
The loud booms and bangs from the Fourth of July fireworks can easily frighten pets — and lead to them potentially running away. In fact, with so many dogs terrified of fireworks, July 5th is often the busiest day of the year at animal shelters, as pets run off from home in fear and are found lost and confused the next day. Just to be safe, make sure your dog is wearing an up-to-date dog tag on their collar. If you’re heading out to experience a fireworks display, consider leaving your pet at home. If you can take in the fireworks from your home, consider moving your pet to a safe room that they’re comfortable with; especially one where the sound from the fireworks will be minimal. If your pet is outdoors and a neighbor sets off fireworks, move your pet inside. After the parties and fireworks are over, be sure to check your yard for any materials that may be hazardous for your pet to eat or play with.
2.Be aware if large crowds give your pup anxiety
Whether it’s a city parade or a gathering at a house- unfamiliar places, people and large crowds can be difficult for some pets to cope with. If you’re heading out to celebrate, it’s best to leave your pet at home if you know they have anxiety issues around large crowds. If you can’t be home for the 4th, consider grabbing a Dog Camera that will let you monitor your pooch remotely. If you’re hosting a party, try to find a quiet and comfortable place away from new people for your pet to hang out in. Also request your guests to leave their pets at home if possible. In addition, make sure your guests know where your pet is in your home or leave notes to ensure that a pet is not accidentally let out of a room.
3.Closely Monitor Food
Nothing says Fourth of July quite like a barbecue, but that can spell trouble for pets. Never let a pet near a grill when you are using it, or when it’s still hot. Barbecue-associated materials such as raw meat, kabob skewers and charcoal, can be dangerous for pets, so keep an eye on your cooking materials and make sure to dispose of them properly. July Fourth foods that may be toxic for dogs are: onions, fatty and fried foods, and chocolate desserts. If they’re served, just make sure your guests throw the leftovers away in a high garbage can that your dog can’t go rooting through.
4.Avoid the Heat
When the temperature is too hot for you, it’s even hotter for your pet, especially on cement or asphalt. Just read our last blog about “when is it too hot for your dog?” If temperatures are extreme and humidity is high, pets belong inside. If pets are outside on hot days, they need access to plenty of water and shade. And of course, never leave a pet inside a car, especially on warm days.
Have a Fun Fourth with your furbaby!
Independence Day should be a joyous time for you and your pets. Just remember to be smart, be safe, and have fun together! ❤️🤍💙 If after the 4th of July, you realize your dog could use some obedience training or even a brush up on training for your next fun Summer outing together, make sure to set up your FREE consultation with our trainers at Come.Sit.Stay Dog Training. We’re Jacksonville, Florida’s #1 In-Home Dog Training service! Just CLICK HERE to learn more and to contact us!
July 1, 2022 - By : Dana
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