Steps to Take Before Celebrations
- Make sure that the identification tags on your pet’s have up-to-date information on them in the case they are lost
- Microchipping is another great option to allow you to get your pet back if they get lost
- Take a recent photograph of your pet to help identify them amongst other dogs of the same or similar breed
- Consider leaving your pets at home during celebrations if they are historically anxious or rowdy during large gatherings or with many noises
Steps to Take During Celebrations
- When attending parties, it’s best to leave your pets safe at home, since loud fireworks, other loud sounds, and unfamiliar environments can be anxiety inducing for your pet. Another option is keeping them in another safe space, such as a crate or room during firework displays, to avoid causing unnecessary stress or anxiety.
- Make sure to keep party decorations or celebratory items from your pet’s reach (i.e. glow sticks, sparklers, or fireworks), as they can be a choking hazard. It’s also a good idea to keep them away from the barbecue while it’s still running.
- During the summer season, when heat and humidity are commonplace, your pet is more susceptible to dehydration and heatstroke. It’s best to keep them inside, or feed them plenty of water (cold water preferably) when outdoors. Just make sure you’re not leaving your pet outside for long periods of time, as it can be extremely dangerous.
- Try to keep your pets away from human foods at 4th of July potlucks, as many of the foods may contain unknown ingredients that are toxic to pets. If you think your pet is suffering from food poisoning, and reveals symptoms such as excessive drooling, lethargy, diarrhea, and/or vomiting, contact the Animal Poison Control Center right away.
- If you’re traveling on the holiday weekend, it’s always a good idea to leave your pet behind with a pet sitter, as they may feel more comfortable in a familiar space. However, you can also bring them on vacation, as long as you follow safety precautions.
Steps to Take After Celebrations
- If you hosted a celebration party at your home, check for any debris from fireworks or other party goods to ensure that your pet does not accidentally ingest them
- If you used lighter fluids for a backyard campfire, check to see if it was put away properly and that no extra liquid leaked out onto the ground as it is hazardous to both humans and animals
- If your pet shows any odd behavior following the party, consider looking into it as they may have swallowed food scraps or reacted poorly to loud noises like a fireworks display or from large crowds
https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/july-4-safety
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