Keeping Your Pets Safe on July 4th
Fireworks and dogs
This fun and festive holiday will be here again before we know it. A July 4th of several years ago is a memorable one for me.
I had just finished up a cook-out with the family and was on my way to visit a client’s pets in Gilbert, Arizona. I really love this client’s pets! They are absolute sweethearts.
As such, I was totally shocked when I opened one of the dog’s kennels and she growled and nipped at me! This was completely out of character for her.
The client had warned me of her dog’s fear of thunderstorms but the weather was clear that day. Something else was bothering her. Then I realized; she was frightened from the sounds of fireworks. The poor girl was too afraid to even go outside.
I know there are plenty of pet owners and pet sitters who can relate to this story.
Safety Tips
To help make this 4th a little easier for some of you, we’ve put together these tips for July 4th Pet Safety:
1) Keep your pets in a safe, controlled environment away from fireworks on the 4th of July.
The pet owner in the story above did exactly the right thing by keeping her pets safe in kennels inside the house during the firework festivities. Don’t make the mistake of taking your pet out to enjoy the holiday fun if fireworks are on the agenda. Loud noises and large groups of people can make your pet anxious, afraid, and/or nervous. When animals are in this state of mind, they can become aggressive.
2) Keep the alcoholic drinks, fireworks, matches, lighter fluid, and glow sticks out of reach.
These items can make for a very enjoyable 4th of July for you, but if your pet ingests any of them, they could be toxic.
3) Watch your pets around the food table
Keep an eye on your pet around the food table. This is especially true if any of the following items are included: chicken bones, onions, chocolate, coffee, grapes, raisins, and salt. These foods could be dangerous to your pet if eaten.
4) If you plan to be out of town during the 4th of July holiday, make sure your pet sitter knows that your pet is afraid of loud noises.
Discuss a plan to make your pet feel safe and secure away from the fireworks. Some animals respond well to treats made specifically for stress. Other pets prefer what’s called a thunder jacket. Both of these can be found at your local pet supply store.
5) More pets run away on this day than any other
Sadly, many pets make a mad dash for any open door or gate at the sound of fireworks. Some animals may never make their way back home for a number of reasons.
To keep your pet safe, and at home, watch them during fireworks. If you have a fenced yard, ensure that the gates are properly secured. If your home has a screened porch, keep your pet inside to resist the temptation of jumping through the screens. Having a party with people coming in and out? Keep your dog in a room with the door closed or in a kennel. As always with your pet, safety first.
Please keep your pet’s safety and well-being in mind this 4th of July holiday. And, since we’re in the Gilbert, AZ area, we hope you and your pets enjoy the local fireworks festivities this year!
For More Information
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.