Temperatures in North Carolina are on the rise, and summer celebrations will be here soon. July Fourth is a favorite warm-weather holiday, but the exploding fireworks and sizzling barbecues can be stressful and dangerous for your four-legged friend. Our Caldwell Animal Hospital team wants you and your pet to enjoy the patriotic festivities, and we offer July Fourth pet safety do’s and don’ts.

DO ensure your pet is properly identified

Historically, July 5 is the busiest intake day for animal shelters across the country because pets frequently panic and bolt when they are frightened by fireworks noise and other July Fourth commotion. Despite your best efforts, your pet may get past your defenses, and having them properly identified is the best way to help ensure you are reunited. Recommendations include:

  • Collar and tags — Ensure your pet always wears a well-fitted collar and tags that have your current contact information, and check the tags to ensure they are legible.
  • Microchip — Microchipping your pet is the best way to provide permanent identification that can’t be lost or removed. 
  • Pictures — Take a picture of your pet before the July Fourth festivities so you have a current photo to post in the neighborhood in case they go missing.

DON’T let your pet partake in the party provisions

One of the most enjoyable aspects of July Fourth is the decadent dishes on display, but, unfortunately, these dishes need to be off-limits to your pet. Concerns include fatty foods, which can cause tummy upset or trigger pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening condition, and human foods such as onions, chocolate, xylitol-containing baked goods, and grapes, which are toxic to pets. Recommendations include:

  • Inform your guests — Ask your guests not to share food off their plates with your pet, regardless of how much your four-legged friend begs.
  • Contain trash — Some pets can’t resist dumpster diving, so keep all trash in sealed containers to help your four-legged friend avoid temptation.
  • Tidy up — Your pet will likely want to help with clean-up duty, so pick up all discarded plates and cups as soon as possible.
  • Provide pet-safe treats — You don’t want your four-legged friend to miss out on the feast, so provide pet-safe treats, but don’t let them overindulge.

DO keep your pet inside

Neighborhood fireworks shows and raucous partiers can scare your pet, and they are more likely to run away if they are outside. Recommendations include:

  • Use reminders — Post notes on your door to remind yourself and your guests to watch for your pet when going in and out.
  • Secure doors and windows — Ensure all doors and windows are properly closed.
  • Create a haven — Set up a quiet pet-safe area where your pet is protected from July Fourth noise and commotion.

DON’T let your pet overheat

Pets can’t regulate their body temperature as efficiently as people and can easily overheat when the weather is hot and humid. Flat-faced breeds, such as bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers, and shih tzus, are especially susceptible to heat stress. Recommendations include:

  • Watch for signs — Heat stress signs include decreased activity, excessive panting and drooling, red mucous membranes, and collapse.
  • Never leave your pet in a car — Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. Temperatures can rise to dangerous levels quickly, and parking in the shade or leaving the window cracked is not enough to safeguard your four-legged friend.
  • Provide water — When out and about with your pet, bring water and a collapsible bowl and offer them water frequently.
  • Take breaks — Ensure your pet takes frequent breaks in shady, well-ventilated areas to help them cool down.
  • Know how to react — If your pet overheats, quickly take them to a cool, well-ventilated area. Offer water, but don’t try to force them to drink. Take their temperature if possible, and start cooling them by pouring lukewarm water over their body. Seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

DO let our veterinary team help

If your pet gets stressed and frightened when the fireworks show starts, they can benefit from veterinary help. Our team can prescribe medications or supplements that will help your pet have an easier July Fourth experience. Give us a call before the holiday so we can determine the best medication and dose for your four-legged friend.

Let our Caldwell Animal Hospital team help you and your pet have a fun and stress-free July Fourth. Contact us today so we can determine how best to address your pet’s fireworks-phobia.