From fireworks shows to outdoor grills, all the things we humans enjoy on the Fourth of July aren’t necessarily as fun for our four-legged friends.
While you may want to invite Rocky and Bailey to join the festivities, check out these tips before you make a decision.
Loud noises and large crowds can scare animals, so fireworks aren’t really their thing. According to the American Humane Society, July 5 is the busiest day of the year for most shelters.
VIDEO: Fireworks, grilling injuries more than triple around July 4
Tracy Elliott, president and CEO of the Anti-Cruelty Society, suggests microchipping or making sure pets are identified, as most pets are getting lost during this time. Elliott also suggested creating a safe space for pets to help them feel comfortable when they hear loud noises.
- Bring your pets inside well before dark. Even outdoor cats need to be brought inside for the night. Make sure they are protected from loud noises and flashes of light while indoors.
- If you know your pets are frightened by loud noises, have someone stay home with them if you must leave the house to celebrate the holidays.
- Close your house. Frightened animals are great escape artists and will find a way out.
- To muffle the startling noise of fireworks, leave the television or radio on as background noise.
- Make sure your pets wear identification tags and, if they are microchipped, that the information is up to date.
- Contact a veterinarian before the holiday if you think your pets need to be tranquilised
- If you lose your pet, don’t wait to start looking. Knock on doors, call your local shelter, and reach out to online communities like Nextdoor and Facebook.
Fireworks aren’t the only issue pet owners should consider this Independence Day. Keep an eye on your four-legged friends throughout the day.
- Do not leave alcoholic beverages within reach of animals. Animals get drunk too and it is neither fun nor safe for them.
- Keep sunscreen, matches, lighter fluid and citronella products out of reach. All of these products are dangerous to pets.
- Glowing jewelry can be fun for nighttime parties, but it doesn’t play well with pets. The glowing chemicals can cause gastrointestinal irritation, and you don’t want them eating the plastic tubing and connectors, either.
- Dogs know when they smell something good, but foods like chicken bones and corn on the cob may require surgical removal. Chocolate, avocado, and onions can be toxic to pets, so be sure to keep an eye on the table.
- Your pet may not have enough shade and fresh drinking water when it’s hot.
Check out more Fourth of July safety tips from the ASPCA.
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