FOURTH OF JULY AND YOUR PETS

America’s celebration of Independence is just a few days away. Fourth of July parties will include lots of great food, drink, and fireworks displays.

Did you know more pets are lost and/or runaway during this holiday, as opposed to other times of the year?

As great as this time of year may be for us humans, some of our pets may find this celebratory weekend filled with chaos.

How can you make this day not so “scary” for your pets? Plan well in advance using some of these tips to not only keep your pet safe, but also as happy as they can be during the celebration.

Keep your pets indoors

Even if you have a pet that is not triggered by fireworks or noisy parties, keep them safely contained indoors for a variety of other reasons you may not even think about:

• Food and Drink safety (refer to this list of toxic substances)
• Grilling safety (matches and lighter fluid are hazardous to your pet)
• To avoid them from getting hit by sparklers, or sparks from fireworks
• Alleviate stress from unfamiliar people, other animals, loud parties and/or fireworks
• Overheating 
• Bug bites and Citronella (only use pet-friendly repellants)

ID Tags

In the unfortunate event your pet escapes, be sure to have their identification tags up to date, and attached to their collars. 

Microchipping is an added level of protection if your fur baby escapes without his or her collar. 

If you are the host of the party, best practice is to inform your guests not to leave the door open, just in case Fido tries to flee. 

Anxiety/Fear

Dogs that become easily stressed in either unfamiliar situations, or by loud noises will need a little more tender loving care. 

Here are a few things you can do to help:

• Keep your pet in a quiet, interior room
• Turn the volume up on the TV or radio to help drown out the noise
• Give them comfort items (food, water, favorite blanket or toy)
• A treat mat can help with distraction
• Try noise cancelling headphones made specifically for pets
• The use white noise
• Use a Thundershirt, or tight harness
• Talk to your vet about the use drugs, supplements, CBD or other calming aids
• Employ a pet sitter if you plan to leave a stressed pet
• Take them for their evening walk a bit earlier
• If you must bring your pet to an event, keep them leashed and recognize the signs of stress

Signs of Stress

The most common signs that your pet is under stress, include:

• Excessive panting and/or drooling
• Shaking
• Trying to hide/escape

If your pet exhibits signs of stress, try comforting them by taking them into another room, holding them tight, or try some other form of distraction.

It’s important to remove a stressed from a situation, as soon as possible. 

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

All of us at Independence Veterinary Clinic wish all of you and your fur babies a happy and safe Fourth of July. Planning can help to ensure you can enjoy the festivities, while keeping your pets’ safe and comfortable!