Many, if not most, pets are terrified by the loud noises from fireworks.
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When making plans for the busy Independence Day weekend, it’s important to take steps to keep your pets safe and healthy as well. Bring them to a quiet location if they begin to tremble, drool or vomit.
Our pets are more sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights and strong smells, so on the Fourth of July (and the days around it when people are likely to set off fireworks), it’s best to leave your pets safely indoors, preferably with a radio or TV turned on to hide jarring noises. Also, be sure to keep your pet away from any alcohol that could have been spilled. For cats, be sure to provide clean litter boxes in this area, too.
Fourth of July isn’t the only time pets run away from home, so it’s important to keep your pets microchipped and keep their tags up to date. You can also try our suggestions for helping your dog cope with loud noises.
Editor’s Note: The PC360 editorial staff is composed of dog owners who graciously shared photos of their pets. If you are attending a celebration with a pool, be sure that your dog is familiar with the edges of the pool.
Make sure your pets have identification tags with up-to-date contact information and consider talking to your veterinarian about micro-chipping your animals. If you do swim with your pet, maintain a close eye on him to prevent drowning and exhaustion. Background music playing can help calm them. Don’t forget about your local pet emergency hospitals.• Call AFV daily at 951-674-0618 and monitor their website www.animalfriendsofthevalleys.com. Unlit fireworks can be risky as well, as some may contain potentially toxic substances such as arsenic and potassium nitrate. “It can even be fatal in severe circumstances”, he said.
If you are having a backyard barbeque, you may be tempted to slip a few snacks to your pet. But like beer and chocolate, there are other festive foods that could harm your pet. Onions, coffee, avocado, grapes and raisins, salt and yeast dough are all possible hazards for dogs and cats.
Keep matches & lighter fluid out of pets’ reach.
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VPI reminds pet lovers that the keys to a safe celebration are preparation and awareness. Your pets will appreciate the quiet a lot more than you’ll enjoy the noise.
