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.
Although you might want to invite Rocky and Bailey to join the festivities, check out these tips before making 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: Injuries from fireworks and grilling 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 it gets dark. Even cats that live outside should be brought inside for the night. Make sure they are protected from loud noises and flashes of light indoors.
- If you know your pets are frightened by loud noises, ask someone to stay home with them if you have to leave the house to celebrate the holidays.
- Close your house. Frightened animals are great escapers and will always 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 finding them. Knock on doors, call the nearest 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 all day long.
- Do not leave alcoholic beverages within reach of animals. Pets get drunk too and it’s neither fun nor safe for them.
- Keep sunscreen, matches, lighter fluid and citronella products out of reach. All 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 can’t get 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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