Fourth of July Pet Safety
The art of keeping our pets safe varies throughout the year. While the Fourth of July is the quintessential summer holiday, it does pose quite a few risks to pet safety. Luckily, with a little bit of planning, you can ensure the holiday is fun and safe for everyone.
The Importance of Identification
Fireworks and thunderstorms can disorient pets so much that after they initially flee the area, they cannot return safely. A sudden loss or separation can be permanent with a non-microchipped pet, or one without a clear ID tag on the collar. We encourage all pet owners to microchip their pets, update the chipโs contact information, and always keep their petโs collar and tag on.
Fireworks Safety for Pets
Some pets have demonstrated a serious reaction to noise on previous occasions, but itโs helpful to treat every Fourth of July like itโs the first. In certain cases, even the most relaxed pets can feel fear during firework shows or thunderstorms.
- Set aside an area at home that is quiet, dim, and comforting.
- Play white noise or music to drown out the loud pops, cracks, and booms of fireworks and thunder.
- Play with them, snuggle, and offer them treats and fresh water.
- Be sure that your pet is not able to run through open windows and doors to the unknown.
If your pet continues to show intense stress and anxiety, we can work on possible solutions with medication and behavioral techniques.
Fourth of July Pet Safety
If you are unable to provide a safe, secure and calm place for your pet to relax in during the holiday, please consider boarding them in a top-rated and recommended boarding facility. Even a laid-back barbecue can turn dangerous if a pet sinks their teeth into fatty meat, bones, sips alcohol, or tries to swallow a corn cob.
The fact is that Independence Day is simply brimming with potential hazards for pets, but with a cognizant approach to their safety and well-being you can prevent most illnesses and injuries. Our team at Borgfeld Animal Hospital is always happy to help your pet.