With Fourth of July festivities just around the corner, it's important that we all take a few minutes to remind ourselves that's what good for the person isn't necessarily what's good for the pooch. While we might like parades, fireworks and the excitment that comes with them; our pets may have a different perspective on this.
One of our WebVet writers submitted a great article on how to keep your pet safe and calm this holiday weekend and I certainly thought it worth sharing his top 10 tips. These tips could save your pet from a great deal of anxiety and you from potential heartache. So heads up everyone!
Fireworks and pets don’t mix. Resist the temptation to take your dog to a fireworks display. Even a dog that is normally easygoing can get spooked by the noise and run off in fear.
If possible, keep your dog indoors during the festivities, preferably in a quiet, sheltered room with covered windows or in a basement.
Don’t leave your pet home alone if you can avoid it. Dogs can become destructive when frightened by loud noises and have been known to jump through screens and chew through leashes. If you do go out, leave the TV, radio, or fan on to help mask the sounds of fireworks.
Make sure that your pet is wearing a properly fitting collar with complete and accurate identification information -- including a rabies tag -- so that it can be identified and returned to you if it should run off. If you have a cat, make sure it is wearing a stretch or safety collar.
Don’t leave your pet unattended outside, even in a fenced area or on a leash. Terrified pets may jump fences or become dangerously entangled in their leashes, occasionally to the point of strangulation.
If you have not already done so, consider microchipping your pet. It’s a fast, safe, and generally painless procedure. Most animal shelters are now equipped with microchip readers and routinely scan strays brought to their facilities.
If your dog is going to be spending time out of doors in the heat, make sure to keep fresh drinking water always available to avoid dehydration and heat stroke.
Swimming is a great hot weather activity that many -- but not all -- dogs enjoy. Take some time to teach your dog how to swim; be sure always to practice good water safety. Consider a personal floatation device for pets who are not great swimmers but who enjoy going in the water.
Never leave your pet in the car. The interior of a car can become dangerously hot very quickly. Leaving windows partially opened will not provide adequate ventilation, but will increase the risk that you will fall victim to pet thieves.
If your pet tends to be frightened by thunder or other loud noises, talk to your veterinarian before the holiday about medication to alleviate anxiety.
We wish you all a very happy, healthy and safe Fourth of July!!
Comments