July Fourth is a time for celebration, filled with fireworks, barbecues, and festive gatherings. While the holiday can be joyful for people, many of the trappings are hazardous to cats and dogs. Loud booms and pops and bright lights send many pets into a tailspin, so, unsurprisingly, animal shelters see the most missing pets this time of year. To understand these risks and take preventive measures, our Stanton Pet Hospital team offers suggestions on how you can ensure your furry friend stays safe and comfortable during the festivities.

Fireworks frighten many pets

Fireworks are a July Fourth celebration staple, but the loud noises and bright flashes terrify many pets who experience severe anxiety and stress, which can lead to dangerous behaviors such as running away, destructive chewing, or sometimes self-harm. Small fireworks, such as sparklers, and holiday decor, including glow sticks, which are toxic if ingested, should be kept away from your furry pal. To keep your pet safe during fireworks events, follow these tips:

  • Create a safe space — Set up a quiet, secure area in your home where your pet can retreat. Include their favorite toys, blankets, and some calming music or white noise to distract your pet.
  • Keep all pets indoors — Fireworks and pets don’t mix. Even if your furry friend doesn’t react to noise, the safest place for them is indoors. Stay with your pet during the outdoor commotion to reassure and comfort them, or enlist a friend or family member they trust if you cannot.
  • Consult our team — If your pet has severe anxiety, speak with our Stanton Pet Hospital veterinarian about possible solutions, which may include anti-anxiety medications, calming pheromones, or boarding them during the holiday for their safety and comfort. 

Foods that are hazardous to pets

Barbecues and picnics are common during the summer holidays, but many foods we enjoy can be harmful or toxic to pets. Foods, such as chocolate, alcohol, grapes, onions, garlic, and the artificial sweetener xylitol, can cause severe health issues. To prevent your four-legged friend from eating foods that could harm them, follow these tips:

  • Keep food out of reach — Ensure all food and drinks are inaccessible to your pet. Be especially cautious with trash, as pets may rummage through looking for leftovers. To prevent them from doing so, securely close all trash containers or move trash to the garage or away from your hungry hound or cat.
  • Remind guests — Remind your guests to refrain from feeding your pet table scraps, even if they beg. Hand your guests a few pet-friendly treats so they can give your pet something they’ll enjoy without harming them.
  • Use caution around grills — Barbecues and grills, including hot grease, can severely burn a pet who gets too close. 

Prevent pets from overheating

Hot, humid weather is typical on Independence Day, and pets can suffer from heatstroke, sunburn, or dehydration if you don’t take precautions. Dogs, mainly breeds with short snouts (i.e., brachycephalic), and older or overweight pets are particularly vulnerable to heat’s effects. To prevent your cat or dog from overheating,  follow these tips:

  • Provide shade and water — Ensure your furry pal has access to plenty of fresh water and shady areas where they can relax. Consider putting up sun shades or umbrellas if you don’t have tree cover.
  • Avoid peak heat times — Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. You can also play interactive games and activities indoors. Exercise is essential to burning off excess energy and minimizing stress in your pet. 

Parties and pets: A risky combo

Large gatherings and excitement can overwhelm pets. If you are hosting a party, you will be unable to supervise your furry pal adequately. During the commotion, many pets escape through gates or doors guests may leave open. To prevent your pet from running away, follow these tips:

  • Keep them inside — Because you will be unable to keep a close eye on your pet when hosting a party, have them stay in a quiet, safe area inside your home.
  • Ensure they have identification (ID) — Ensure your four-legged friend is wearing a collar with up-to-date ID tags. In addition, have your furry pal microchipped, which provides permanent identification that can’t be lost or removed. Microchipping is the most effective way to help ensure you can be reunited with your pet if they run away. 

July Fourth can be stressful for pets, but with careful planning, you can help your furry pal stay safe and secure. By understanding the potential dangers and mitigating them, you can ensure your entire family, including the furry one, enjoys a happy, healthy holiday. If your pet has severe noise aversion or fireworks anxiety, contact our Stanton Pet Hospital team so we can help minimize their fears.