The Fourth of July is a time of celebration. This hallmark of summer is often accentuated with cookouts, fireworks, and gatherings of friends and family. While fun for humans, these can be potentially dangerous events for pets. It is important to take steps to keep your dog safe, even if it is well-trained and adjusted. Your dog may be pretty easy-going and relaxed most of the time, but when fireworks start exploding, it can be a different story.
Update your dog’s identification. Make sure your current contact information is on your dog’s tags, and that they are wearing their collar at all times. If they are microchipped, double-check that their information is up-to-date, especially if you have recently moved or changed phone numbers. Having a recent photo on hand is a good idea as well, just in case your dog should wander off.
Leave your dog at home. If you are going to a friend’s house or local park to celebrate the fourth, even if your dog is allowed to come, it’s safer to leave them home. They will be more comfortable in their own surroundings, away from the heat, noise, and activity. You may want to contain your dog to their crate or a specific room and leave the television or radio on as a distraction.
Keep potentially dangerous objects away from your dog. If your dog is outside enjoying the afternoon celebrations before fireworks start, make sure they are contained to an area away from the grill and any tiki torches or citronella candles. Remind family and friends to please not feed your dog any table food, as it could make them sick. Avoid adorning your dog with a glowstick necklace or other decorations that could become hazardous to their health, especially if they do not want to be wearing it or become spooked (or bored).
Do not leave your dog in the car. If you’re going out to enjoy a fireworks display, do not leave your dog alone in the car. Even at night, the temperature can become dangerously hot, and they could get into trouble if scared by the sights and sounds of fireworks.
Keep fireworks away from your dog. Families often like playing with sparklers or other small fireworks that spin on the ground. Your dog may mistakenly try to eat or lick these objects, or get hit by flying sparks. It is best to keep them securely locked away indoors for their safety. After the festivities are over, make sure you do a thorough sweep of the yard and sidewalks to clean up any leftover debris so your dog does not get into anything.
Dogs can become easily spooked and upset by the bright lights, loud noises, and unusual smells that often accompany Independence Day celebrations. If you have your dog out with you, keep them close and preferably on a leash. Put them inside before fireworks begin, and make sure they are in a location where they won’t accidentally slip out if an outside door is opened.
If you’re headed out for the fourth and don’t want to have to worry about where your dog is or if they are okay, schedule them to stay at Lake Wylie Pet Resort. We board dogs as well as cats and provide high-quality, compassionate care for your pet while you’re away. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
The owner is such a sweet, caring person. Her staff takes great care of our dog! Please make her business your first choice in caring for your pets!!!