Independence Day is perfect for spending time by the water, grilling delicious foods, and enjoying the fireworks. However, for your pet, this holiday may be anything but enjoyable. Startling fireworks sounds, ongoing loud music, and partygoers’ general noisiness can send your furry friend into a tailspin. During the July Fourth holiday, several hazards threaten your pet’s health and safety, but you can mitigate these risks by following The Wagging Club team’s tips. 

Bring your pet indoors

Even if your pet loves spending time outdoors, bringing them inside during fireworks is essential for their protection. Loud noises can frighten pets, causing them to run away or injure themselves. Outdoor cats have a high injury risk because of fireworks fears, traffic, and crowds. If your furry pal is outside with you during the day, monitor their behavior for fear or anxiety signs and leave them at home if you attend a public fireworks display.

Create a pet safe zone

After bringing your four-legged friend indoors, create an area where they can retreat during the festivities. Ideally, they should stay in a room with few doors and windows. Many pets can easily pop out window screens, so ensure you close windows and latch them. Stay with your pet during the outdoor commotion if they are particularly anxious, or ask a family member to remain with them if you need to entertain guests. To make your pet’s safe spot inviting, include the following:

  • Interactive toys
  • Food-dispensing puzzles 
  • Blankets
  • Treats
  • White noise, such as a TV played at a low volume or calming music
  • Calming aids, including pheromone sprays or anxiety vests

Have your pet microchipped

Proper identification (ID) increases the chances of a safe return if your pet escapes. While you should also ensure your pet’s ID tag on their collar is up to date, microchips are the most effective way to help ensure your pet can be returned to you if they become lost. Microchipping is a quick and convenient procedure that can be done during your pet’s regular wellness exam. 

Monitor your pet around holiday decor

Many seemingly harmless holiday items, including sparklers and other small fireworks, can seriously injure pets if they ingest or come into contact with them. Pets might try to chase or chew these items, getting burned or ingesting harmful substances. Additionally, glow sticks, a popular item for kids, are filled with toxic substances. Keep your pet away from any holiday decor and promptly clean up firework debris. 

Avoid giving your pet foods that people usually eat

Many foods enjoyed during July Fourth are toxic to pets, such as chocolate, alcohol, grapes, onions, garlic, and the sugar substitute xylitol. Some foods, although not toxic, are greasy or rich, which can cause gastrointestinal (GI) distress in cats and dogs. Remind guests to never give your pet table scraps despite those big, begging eyes. Explain to guests that they can offer your four-legged friend a suitable treat, and provide treats, such as a carrot sticks, blueberries, dog biscuits, or cat treats. Additionally, cover all garbage containers with a tight-fitting lid to prevent dumpster diving. 

Supervise your pet when outdoors

You may wish to hang outside with your pet before the bangs, pops, and sizzles ensue. Remember that July Fourth is during the hottest part of the summer, so watch the weather and stick to walks and outdoor play during the early morning. Provide your furry friend with water to stay hydrated, always bringing bottled water and a bowl on walks or hikes. In addition, always supervise your pet if you plan to hit the pool or other bodies of water on Independence Day. Many pets are ill-equipped for swimming or can tire easily in water, thereby increasing their drowning risk. 

Consider boarding your pet 

If you are hosting a large gathering and cannot be fully present for your pet, consider boarding them with The Wagging Club team. Our staff understands noise aversion in pets and can help maintain your pet’s safety and comfort, minimizing their stress and anxiety while in a secure, cozy environment. 

July Fourth can be a fun and festive time for families, but you must also consider your four-legged family member’s safety and well-being. By following these tips, you can maintain your pet’s safety, comfort, and happiness during the celebrations. Extra precautions can go a long way in preventing accidents and escapes. To book your pet’s July Fourth stay with us, contact The Wagging Club team. Have a paws-itively safe and happy holiday!