PET CARE
Fourth of July Pet Safety Tips
The Fourth of July means fun and festivities abound! Independence Day is often celebrated with an abundance of barbecues, fireworks, and a host of friends and family. This US holiday is no celebration for dogs and cats, though; the sound of fireworks can cause anxiety and panic in many pets. Celebrations can also increase the likelihood that your pet eats or drinks something harmful to their health. It’s important that pet owners prioritize the safety and well-being of their pets during this time.
Here are some Fourth of July pet safety tips to keep your dog or cat safe and sound among all the festivities:
Leave Your Furry Friend at Home
The best way to protect your pet during Independence Day is to leave your furry friend at home. Fourth of July celebrations are notorious for large crowds and loud noises — two things that can be very stressful for your pet. Although you likely won’t be taking your cat to parades and parties, you might consider bringing your dog. While this may be OK for some dogs, others can have a difficult time adapting to crowds and unfamiliar places.
The sound of fireworks and other loud noises can also frighten your dog, potentially prompting them to run and hide — which can increase the risk of getting hurt or lost.
Even if you plan on staying at home, you should aim to keep your pets inside. This is the safest way to help your pet avoid the stresses of the festivities. Keep the blinds closed, and turn on the radio. These changes are comforting and help mitigate the distractions from the ruckus that may be going on outside.
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Keep Hazardous Items Away From Your Pet
Independence Day festivities can come with an assortment of hazards for our pets. For instance, lighters, lighter fluid, and matches are all more present during this time. Make sure to keep these out of your pet’s reach. They contain harmful chemical substances that can cause your pet difficulty breathing, skin irritation, gastrointestinal upset, tremors or seizures, respiratory problems, and even kidney disease.1
Glow sticks and glow jewelry are another item to be aware of. Your pet could swallow the plastic, causing intestinal problems. And you should never leave your alcoholic beverages unattended, as they can be toxic to your pet. Some signs of alcohol poisoning include vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, slowed breathing, muscle weakness, and collapse.
If you suspect your pet ate something hazardous, contact your vet right away.
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Be Cautious of Table Scraps
Traditional Independence Day cookout food like hamburgers and hot dogs may be particularly appealing to your four-legged friend. Though it can be tempting to let your pet join in the culinary experience of the day, limit the amount of human food you "drop," and keep an eye on unattended food your pet may try to sneak off the table.
Deviating from your pet’s usual diet can cause an upset stomach. And barbecue staples like onions, grapes, and avocados can all be toxic to your furry friend. Also, keep in mind that certain foods, such as corn on the cob, kebabs, and bones, can lead to intestinal blockage or be a choking hazard.
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Keep Your Pet Cool and Hydrated
If you plan to be out and about with your furry companion during the Fourth of July, the fireworks, crowds, and food are just some of the factors to consider. Another important consideration is the sun. Hot summer temperatures can take a toll on your pet and pose several health risks, such as overheating, dehydration, and heat stroke.
Protect your pet by minimizing their exposure to the sun and keeping them well hydrated. Look for shady spots that can help keep your dog cool, and always have water on hand. Watch out for the signs of heat stroke such as excessive drooling, bright red gums, and an elevated heart rate.
Consider using canine-formulated sunscreen to protect your dog from UV rays. Shorthair breeds, like whippets, Dalmatians, and bulldogs, may be especially susceptible to sunburn and skin irritation.2
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Use Pet Safe Bug Repellent
Your pet may encounter many insects during outdoor Independence Day celebrations. Although some bug bites are harmless, others can be very dangerous to the health and well-being of your pet. For instance, ticks and mosquitoes can transmit diseases, like Lyme disease and heartworms, through biting.
To protect your pet, you may want to apply insect repellent to their coat. However, make sure the repellent is specially formulated for animals. Human insect repellent can contain ingredients that are toxic to animals if licked or absorbed through the skin. DEET, a common ingredient in insect repellents, is especially poisonous and can cause seizures, tremors, or death.3
You should also avoid using citronella candles, as inhalation can cause severe respiratory problems for your pet. It can even result in pneumonia.4
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Preparing Ahead of Time for the Fourth of July
The measures above can help keep your beloved pet safe during the Fourth of July, but you can take more steps to prepare for the festivities. You may want to add these actions to your pre-Fourth of July pet safety checklist.
- Check with your vet about anti-anxiety medication: If your pet is anxiety-prone, you may want to look into anti-anxiety meds ahead of any Fourth of July celebrations. These meds can help calm your pet down during fireworks displays and other noisy events.
- Get your pet microchipped: Microchipping your pet may increase your chances of finding them if they become lost. If your pet is already microchipped, make sure the information is up to date.
- Invest in a GPS collar or ID tag: In lieu of or in addition to a microchip, an ID tag or GPS collar can also help locate your missing pet. Before the celebrations begin, check all your pet's information to ensure it is current.
- Pet-proof your home: Double-check to make sure your house and yard are safe and secure for your pet. Consider if your fencing will keep your pet contained and whether items in your home are at a safe distance if your pet becomes panicked.
Consider Investing in Pet Insurance
Pet insurance offers valuable peace of mind not just during holiday celebrations, but year-round as well. From heat-related accidents to food poisoning, pet insurance can help cover the costs of veterinary care.
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