The summer holiday season is upon us! This year many of us are hitting the road and traveling to see family and friends.
Fourth of July and Fireworks are fun, but pet parents around the world agree, they are also our worst nightmare!
As we prepare for the largest fireworks display of the season, we need to remember to ensure the safety of our pets – before, during, and after the shows.
Festivities such as fireworks, picnics, and other activities can be great fun for people, but they can also be frightening or even dangerous for animals. Animals can run away from noisy fireworks and other celebrations; holiday foods can be unhealthy; heat and travel during summer can be hazardous, and potentially dangerous debris can end up lying on the ground where pets are able to consume it!
Vet emergency room visits are on the rise this holiday season, but you can help protect your pet. Here’s how:
4 Tips to be Prepared:
- If your pets aren’t already microchipped, talk with your vet about microchipping. This procedure can improve your chances of getting your pets back if they become lost. If your pets are microchipped, make sure your contact information in the microchip registry is up-to-date.
- Double up and make sure they are wearing an ID tag for a quick more efficient pet return.. If your pet has a history of anxiety on this holiday. Some pets may need medication. Consult your veterinarian.
- Make sure the environment is safe and secure. Keep your pets indoors when it is time for fireworks. Some people will set them off a little earlier than dark for young children. Be prepared for this and have your pet with you indoors, or a place where they feel safe and secure if you can’t be with them.
- Have a current photo of all of your cats, dogs, and horses – just in case. (or scroll back about 2 images on your phone and make sure you have at least 100! – I know you!) 😉
7 Safety Tips during July 4 gatherings:
- Keep pets away from the hot grill or open fires
- Don’t feed your pets table scraps, ask any guests to respect this as well.
- Keep them indoors if it is crazy hot that day. They can also suffer from heat exposure, and much more quickly than you and I. After all, they are wearing fur coats!
- Consider leaving your pets at home – but in a safe place where they feel comfortable. While parties and fireworks are taking place, consider putting your pets in a safe room or crate
- If you’re hosting, ask your guests to help keep an eye on your pets. Place notes on doors and gates as a reminder to make sure the pet stays put can help both of you immensely.
- Keep sparklers, glow sticks, fireworks & other danger potentials away from curious pets.
- No pets are left in cars. They are just safer at home. Or be in the car with them, with AC running for a very short period of time.
After the party:
- Clean up your yard/beach/party area for fireworks debris before allowing pets outside to play or relax.
- Check for food scraps and table waste. An innocent piece of plastic wrap that has remnants of food could be toxic as well as the pet may choke on the wrapper.
It’s a lot to keep in mind, but as we get back to enjoying our lives in some sense of normalcy, it is important to remember the safety of our fur buddies. They are always there to support us and have carried many of us through the tough times. Let’s show them the love they deserve and keep them protected.
Have a fantastic holiday weekend! If you have any great tips and tricks, please share them in the comments below. We love to hear from you!
Pawsitive Landing Project 