Tony's Ten Tips Choosing the Right Vet Ask the Vet Microchipping Pets Hot Car Dangers Flea Control FeLV Facts

Pet Safety Tips for the 4th of July

Fourth of July is a fun time of year for the family, but not always for the family pet. Though beautiful and awe-inspiring to people, fireworks are notoriously terrifying for dogs. Some dogs become so fearful they jump fences, tear through screens, and can even break through windows while trying to escape. Imagine the horror of coming home from a fun-filled day and realizing your pet is nowhere to be found. This phenomenon is not exclusive to dogs; cats can also become fearful and quickly disappear. Here are some tips to help you and your pet safely enjoy the Fourth of July:

Here are some tips to help you and your pet safely enjoy the Fourth of July:

1. Never take your pet to a firework display.
2. Never leave your pet in a hot car. Animals can succumb to heat stroke faster than you realize.
3. During the firework display, don't leave pets in the yard or loose indoors with windows or doors open, even when fitted with screens. They may attempt to escape when scared. Keep your pets inside in a quiet, cool, well-ventilated room with a radio or TV playing softly in the background. (A crate also works well.) Make sure it is not a room they can easily escape from, and be sure to draw any window shades.
4. If at a barbeque, keep animals away from food scraps and alcohol. Be sure to also supervise them around swimming pools and lakes.
5. Be sure your pet has enough fresh, clean water to remain well hydrated at all times.
6. Do not decorate pets with glow sticks as they might mistake them for chew toys. Similarly, be aware of your other Fourth of July decorations and how they could affect (or even harm) your pet.
7. Make sure your pet’s microchip or identification tags have up-to-date information so he/she may be promptly returned to you if they become lost.
8. If you are leaving town, be sure to alert your pet-sitter of your animal's possible anxiety and give him/her directions accordingly.
9. Be on the lookout for possible firework debris when walking your dog.
10. Be aware that people may continue using their leftover fireworks in the days following the Fourth of July.

By following the tips above you and your pet can have a safe and happy Fourth of July holiday!

Back To Top

Back To Resources & Links

Back To Home