Stars, Stripes, and Safety: July Fourth Pet Safety Tips

Keep pets away from fireworks

Fireworks can be terrifying for pets, leading to stress, fear, and potential injury. Keep your pet indoors during prime showtimes around sunset. Create a safe, quiet space for them with comforting items, such as their favorite toys and a cozy bed, and provide engaging treat puzzles and chews for distraction. Additionally, consider using calming products, such as pheromone sprays and diffusers, compression wraps, and soothing music, to help reduce their anxiety.

Protect pets from water hazards

If your celebrations include pool parties or lake trips, ensure your pet is safe around water. Not all pets are natural swimmers, and even those who are can become fatigued. Supervise your pet when they are near water, and outfit them in a pet life jacket for added safety. Be cautious of pool chemicals, which can be harmful if ingested, and rinse your pet with fresh water after swimming to remove any chlorine or salt from their fur and skin.

Prevent your pet from overheating

July Fourth often means hot weather, and pets can easily overheat when exercising, playing, or relaxing in poorly ventilated areas. Ensure your pet has access to plenty of fresh water and shade when outdoors and keep them inside during the hottest parts of the day. Walk your dog in the early morning or late evening when conditions are typically the most comfortable. Keep a close eye out for overheating signs, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and disorientation. If you suspect your pet is overheating, move them to a cool area, provide water, and consult your veterinarian immediately.

Secure grills and food to prevent your pet from being injured

Barbecues are a staple of July Fourth celebrations, but they pose many risks to pets. Keep your pet away from the grill to prevent burns and ingestion of lighter fluid, grease-covered gravel, and discarded barbecue supplies. Additionally, ensure that food and drinks are kept out of your pet’s reach. Common barbecue foods, such as bones, corncobs, and fatty meats, can cause gastrointestinal (GI) issues or choking hazards, while alcohol and certain foods, such as chocolate, onions, and grapes, are toxic to pets and should be kept well out of their reach.

Protect your pet against fleas and ticks

Outdoor activities increase your furry friend’s parasite exposure risk. Before the holiday, ensure your pet is up-to-date on their heartworm, flea, and tick prevention treatments to safeguard against parasitic infections and illnesses. And, after spending time outdoors, check your pet for ticks and remove them promptly to prevent conditions such as Lyme disease.

Keep your pet away from loud noises and large crowds

Aside from fireworks, other loud noises, such as blaring music or exuberant crowds, can be stressful for pets. If you’re hosting a party, create a safe and quiet space for your pet indoors, away from the hustle and bustle. Inform your guests not to disturb your pet and ensure doors and gates are securely closed to prevent your pet from escaping.

Maintain your pet’s normal routine

Pets thrive on routine, and changes can increase their anxiety. Try to keep feeding times, walks, and playtimes as consistent as possible to provide a sense of normalcy, helping to reduce stress during the festivities.

Update your pet’s identification

If your pet escapes during the festivities, proper identification (ID) is crucial for a happy reunion. Ensure your pet’s collar has an up-to-date ID tag with your current contact information. Microchipping your pet provides an extra layer of security, as this tiny implanted device allows animal shelters and veterinarians to check for a permanent ID form and reunite you with your four-legged friend as quickly as possible.

July Fourth is a joyous time for celebrations, but the holiday also presents several hazards for pets beyond the well-known fireworks dangers. If your furry pal encounters an Independence Day danger, contact your AAHA-accredited veterinarian for help.