26/06/2024
As the Fourth of July weekend is near many of us are excited for the celebrations to come. As preparations are underway for all the festivities, it is important to consider your pet as well!
1. PROVIDE A SAFE HAVEN- One of the most important ways to keep your pet safe, ease anxiety and fear is to provide them with a safe and secure environment. This is especially important if you plan to have guests over or fireworks are going off.
- Keeping your pet at home in an escape-proof room or crate in a quiet area and low traffic area of the house is best. A basement is a good location if available because it can diminish outside noises.
- Playing music or having the TV on may also diminish external noises.
- Having your pet's favorite toys or interactive toys available can ease anxiety.
2. HAVE A CHILL PILL HANDY- Contact your veterinarian for the best OTC and Prescription strength products. Thunder shirts can also be used to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system to help aid in easing anxiety.
3. BEAT THE HEAT & STAY COOL- Being in the midst of the summer heat be sure to provide plenty of shade, water, and decrease time outside during the hottest part of the day.
4. ENSURE PROPER ID- More pets get lost during the fourth of July than any other time of year.
Fireworks and loud noises can easily startle your pet causing them to run away from home or yard in fear.
-Ensure your pet has an ID tag with their name and your contact information so that they can be returned as quickly as possible if found.
-Microchipping is another means of protection to ensure your pet gets home safe. If already microchipped ensure that it is registered, and your contact information is up to date.
5. KEEP THE BBQ OUT OF PAWS REACH - Even though our pets love to be included in the festivities not all food is safe for their consumption and even food that is not toxic can still cause digestion issues including but not limited to an upset stomach or getting a blockage.
6. PLAN AHEAD-Think and plan ahead so when the celebrations start your pet is safe allowing you to be able to relax and enjoy the holiday weekend.
****If you find a pet, go the extra step to help reunite them with their family before bringing them to the shelter. This is one of the busiest seasons for many shelters and unfortunately many are/ get at maximum capacity quickly.
- post on lost & found pages
- contact the local shelter to see if they have seen the pet before or if you need to scan for a chip.
