How Do I Keep My Pets Safe (and Comfortable) on the 4th of July?
Providing a Safer Holiday Experience – Even With Fireworks- for Your 4-Legged Companions
Pets and fireworks don’t go well together. With star-spangled festivities right around the corner, it’s easy to get distracted by the excitement and forget just how scary the Fourth of July can be for our four-legged friends. With bright flashes, thundering booms and high-pitched squeals, even the most docile of pets can become overwhelmed, causing them to search for a way to escape.
– Did You Know –
More pets run away on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year.
Plan ahead and keep your furry friends safe with these 7 Fourth of July pet safety tips:
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Tag Along
Check your pet’s identification tags or online microchip information to make sure they include the most up-to-date information.
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Stay or Play
If you plan to be away from the house during the holiday, decide whether it is best to leave pets at home or bring them with you. If you plan to go to a party, firework show or parade, it’s probably best to leave pets safe at home.
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Beat the Heat
Be mindful of pets spending too much time in the sun and heat. Make sure pets have access to shady spots and plenty of water when outdoors and keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion.
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Safe & Sound
Ensure the safety of your pet by checking their surroundings. Make sure crate locks are functional, doggy doors are secured and fences don’t have loose boards or low spots. Evaluate the safest location for your pets before festivities begin and make sure they will be both comfortable and secure.
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Sweet Retreat
Consider creating a cozy retreat for your pet in an enclosed, darkened room or crate away from bright flashes. If you expect loud noises nearby, play music or white noise in the room to help soothe pet’s nerves.
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Scraps for Scruffy
Avoid feeding pets table scraps that may upset their digestion. Many common party foods are toxic to pets including chocolate, onions, grapes and raisins, fried foods, avocados and more.
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Clean Up Crew
After the evening’s festivities, be sure to check your house and yard for leftover debris that may harm pets such as sparklers, kabob skewers, toothpicks, plastic toys, etc.
Click here for more on keeping your pets safe during the holidays!