Seven Things Dog Owners Should Know About the 4th of July
- Contain the Party Food…
The sites and smells of barbeques, grilled meats and picnic goodies are tempting to all of us but can be particularly harmful to dogs. Summer menu selections usually contain one or many of the most toxic substances to pets including: avocados, alcohol, onions/garlic, caffeine, grapes/raisins, milk/dairy products, macadamia nuts, chocolate, candy/gum (especially those sweetened with xylitol) and bones. Avoid the potential for intestinal distress or serious illness. Resist giving in to those big eyes and keep your pet on a normal diet. Also, keep lighter fluid and matches out of your dog’s reach as these can be toxic if ingested or inhaled.
- Respect the Sun…
Be sure to limit your dog’s sun exposure, especially in very warm, humid weather. Provide access to plenty of shade and water while your dog is outdoors. For short and light haired dogs, apply sunscreen, but be sure to use only products labeled specifically for pets. Human sunscreen can be toxic to dogs.
Provide a safe spot in the shade.
- Avoid Pests Safely
Keep citronella candles, insect coils and oil products away from your dog. Use insect repellant specifically for pet use. Misuse of “people” bug spray containing DEET can lead to neurological problems.
- Hold the Fireworks…
Dogs are often terrified of fireworks and panic at the loud whizzes and bangs. They don’t associate the noise, flashes and burning smell with celebrations. If you are hosting your own fireworks display, remember that lit fireworks are dangerous to curious pets and can cause severe burns. Unused fireworks are also hazardous if they contain potentially toxic substances such as arsenic, potassium nitrate or other heavy metals. Large public fireworks displays are no fun for pets, either. Too many people plus the noise may make them freak out, break their restraint and run away in their attempt to find safety. Statistically, July 5th is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters due to pets that panicked and fled only to become lost, injured or killed.
At home in bed is safer than bringing yiur dog to see fireworks with you.
- Provide a Safe Place, Especially After Dark…
During 4th of July festivities, the safest course is to keep your dog indoors in a quiet, sheltered, escape-proof area of your home. Keep your pet away from glow jewelry.
It might look cute, but your pet could chew and swallow the plastic.
- Utilize White Noise…
While your dog is inside in a safe place, keep a radio, stereo or TV as well as a fan or air conditioner on to make them less aware of the strange and frightening sounds outside.
- Keep their Tags on…
In case they get out, get spooked and get lost, be sure your dog is wearing a collar or harness with their ID tags and your phone number.
Keep tags on your dog for identification.
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