The Fourth of July is one of the most celebrated summer holidays. Who doesn’t love an excuse to take a day off of work to celebrate the birth of our nation? But while you and your friends and family spend the day at the beach, have a backyard barbecue, or watch a fireworks display over a lake, be sure to take a moment to think of your pets. Animals are often terrified of the loud noises and bright lights that occur during Independence Day celebrations and cause them to panic. In order to keep your pets safe, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (ASPCA) and the Proactive Animal Welfare, Inc. (PAW) have come up with a few helpful tips to keep in mind during your 4th of July festivities.
Keep Your Pet Indoors As Much As Possible
Even if your pet is used to being outside, the extra commotion of all people and action and the loud sounds from fireworks can frighten your pet and not only affect their wellbeing, but potentially cause them to run away as well.
Don’t Use Fireworks Around Pets
Not only can fireworks be very dangerous to a pet that gets a little too close or curious, but fireworks are also made up of toxic substances including arsenic and other heavy metals that can be very harmful if ingested by your pet.
Be Sure Your Pet Has a Collar Tag or Microchip
When pets get scared, it is not unusual for them to run away in search of safety. If a fireworks display makes them panic and they bolt, a properly identified animal with a collar or implanted microchip will be much easier to track down.
Don’t Use “People” Sunscreen Or Bug Repellent On Your Pet
Even though they are not harmful to humans, sunscreen and bug spray can be toxic to animals. The DEET in bug repellent can cause neurological damage in pets, while the poisonous effects of sunscreen on your pet can result in vomiting, drooling, excessive thirst, and diarrhea.
Don’t Feed Your Dog Table Food
It is always tempting to feed your pet table scraps, especially if you’re having a backyard barbecue or a family reunion potluck, but many festive foods can be hazardous to your pet. Chocolate may be an obvious one, but grapes, avocado, onions, and yeast dough can all be harmful to your pet.
While you may consider your pet your best friend, it is smartest to exclude them from this year’s 4th of July festivities. They will be the most calm and comfortable if you find them a safe spot indoors that is away from the people, food, and loud fireworks.
Courtesy of: Pet MD
