No Products in the Cart
FREE SHIPPING FOR ORDERS OVER $15
The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, filled with fireworks, barbecues, and outdoor fun. While we enjoy the festivities, it's important to remember that these events can be stressful and even dangerous for our pets. Here’s how to ensure your furry friends stay safe and happy during the Independence Day celebrations.
Fireworks can be frightening for pets. The loud noises and bright flashes can cause anxiety and panic. Set up a comfortable, quiet area inside your home where your pet can retreat. This could be a room with few windows and familiar items like their bed, toys, and blankets. Play some calming music or white noise to help drown out the fireworks.
Never bring your pet to a fireworks display. Even if your pet seems calm, the noise and crowd can be overwhelming. Keep your pet indoors during fireworks, and if you’re setting off fireworks at home, ensure your pet is securely inside before lighting them.
Make sure your pet's ID tags and microchip information are up-to-date. If your pet gets frightened and runs away, proper identification increases the chances of them being returned to you quickly. Consider adding a temporary tag with your current contact information if you’ll be traveling.
Barbecues are a staple of Fourth of July celebrations, but many foods we enjoy can be harmful to pets. Avoid feeding your pet table scraps, especially foods like onions, garlic, chocolate, alcohol, and foods containing bones. Instead, have some pet-safe treats on hand.
If you plan on spending time outdoors during the day, remember that pets can get sunburned too, especially those with short or light-colored coats. Use a pet-safe sunscreen and apply it to sensitive areas like the nose, ears, and belly.
Ensure your pet has access to plenty of fresh water throughout the day. The summer heat can cause dehydration quickly. If you’re outdoors, bring a portable water dish and a bottle of water for your pet.
If you’re taking your pet to a park or a gathering, always keep them on a leash. Even well-behaved pets can get spooked by loud noises or large crowds. A leash ensures they stay close to you and out of harm’s way.
If your pet is particularly anxious, speak with your veterinarian about possible solutions. There are various anxiety wraps, pheromone sprays, and calming supplements that can help. In some cases, prescription medication may be necessary.
Even after the fireworks stop, the smell of fireworks debris can still pose a threat. Make sure your yard is clean and free from any remnants of fireworks before letting your pet outside.
Give your pet plenty of exercise earlier in the day. A tired pet is more likely to rest through the evening's excitement. Take a long walk, play fetch, or engage in other activities that will help tire them out.
Before the festivities begin, ensure that your home and yard are secure. Close and lock windows and doors, and check that your fence has no gaps where your pet could escape.
Celebrating the Fourth of July with your pet can be a wonderful experience as long as you take the necessary precautions. By keeping their safety and comfort in mind, you can ensure a fun and stress-free holiday for everyone in your household. Happy Independence Day!
