Protecting Your Pets this 4th of July

Do not let the celebration of our nation’s Independence and its various festivities including fireworks displays become a tragedy for your family by the loss of a beloved pet. Scores of dogs and other pets die each year because of the dangers this holiday can present to pets. Accidents with fireworks being set off near pets and panicked pets being hit and killed by running into the path of moving vehicles, are two of the primary causes for the loss of many pet lives each summer. Pets startled by fireworks and other holiday activities that stray away from home, become lost and end up in shelters, are subject to euthanasia if their owners do not claim them within 7-10 days in many shelters, also claims the lives of many family pets each year. Protect your pet from the dangers this holiday poses to them with these tips.

• Whenever possible the safest place for your pets is indoors when fireworks displays and other loud activities are taking place.
• Providing “white noise” to help hide the noises of the holiday like turning on a fan, radio, or TV can help to keep your pet calm.
• Close window shades so that pets cannot see fireworks in the sky or people passing by and become agitated by those sights.
• Supply outdoor pets with a protected area for them to be in while various 4th of July celebrations are under way. make sure that they are securely confined to the area you have chosen. Panicked dogs can easily break free from chains and tie-out stakes when frightened.
• Do not light fireworks anywhere near your pet or where they could fall on and severely injure your pet. Children should always be supervised while using sparklers and other small fireworks, but especially when you also have outdoor pets.
• Avoid the temptation to feed your pets the fixings from your holiday meals as these can sicken your
• Are you planning to head to the lake or beach with your dog this Fourth of July? Watch them closely around the water to prevent their drowning. Even dogs who are skilled swimmers can become tired and unable to reach the shore. Also, keep suntan lotions and sunscreens, insect repellents, and other products that smell good to pets but are very dangerous to them when ingested away from your pet. Do not forget to bring a water dish along to keep pets hydrated while out in the sun and heat. Be aware that blacktops and other concrete surfaces can burn the sensitive undersides of pet paws, so avoid walking your pet over these wherever possible

I wish you, your family, your pets, and pets everywhere, a safe and glorious Fourth of July 2009.