John Adams, one of our great nation’s forefathers, rightly predicted that Independence Day will be celebrated by future generations, and “solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations”.
Here in Williamsburg, we keep Revolutionary War traditions alive, and Fourth of July festivities are the apex of our community’s history. However, the grand holiday’s food, fanfare, and fireworks may not be suitable for your pet. Join us as we outline the most important tips for Fourth of July pet safety.
Great Options
You may want to include your pet in all the Independence Day revelry, and if he or she is properly socialized and trained, you may be able to incorporate your pet into one or two mellow activities. Still, many animals react unpredictably to loud noises or crowds, and fear or stress can actually lead to running away or hiding. Your friends and neighbors may have any of the legal consumer fireworks, such as sparklers, fountains, pharaoh’s serpents, pinwheels, and whirligigs, which may unnerve your pet.
To protect your pet, consider the following:
- Keep your pet inside your home from the early afternoon hours through the entire evening
- Exercise your pet before the action gets started, and, when nature calls, take your dog to the yard on a leash
- Close your windows and use the air conditioning, fans, TV, or radio to filter out as much outside noise as possible
- Check to ensure your pet’s microchip information is up to date, and that his or her tags are secure
- Observe your pet’s behavior closely and allow him or her to safely retreat to a calming place, like a crate, or beneath the bed
- Provide freshwater; nervous pets can easily become dehydrated
- Be available to your pet; he or she might cling to you and seek your protection
Soothe Your Pet’s Senses
Noise phobia can affect your pet’s otherwise calm and easygoing personality. Signs include:
- Hiding
- Barking
- Digging
- Pacing
- Panting
- Chewing
- Sudden incontinence
- Drooling
- Shaking or trembling
- Dilated pupils
- Looking for ways to escape
Fourth of July pet safety for noise phobic pets typically involves remaining at home together. A Thundershirt is a clinically-proven tool to ease pet stress and anxiety, or your pet is welcome to stay with us at the St. Francis Pet Resort & Rehabilitation Center.
Fourth of July Pet Safety
Additionally, the following are recommended:
- Do not feed your pet any holiday food or alcohol
- Do not spray your pet with bug spray or apply sunblock intended for human use
- Securely store all fireworks, lighters, and matches and inspect your property for the remaining pieces of fireworks
- Glow sticks, a popular party favor, can be toxic to pets if ingested
When certain Fourth of July pet safety measures are established, your pet can comfortably make it to the following day. Please let us know if your pet requires emergency care and, as always, call us with any questions! Happy Independence Day!