Independence Day is a day of celebration and family, so of course you would like your pet to enjoy the festivities along with the rest of the family. However, you must be mindful of the potential dangers that this holiday may bring to your pets.
Fireworks and your pets
According to Petfinder.com, the Fourth of July is the number one day of the year for lost dogs. While panic caused by the noise of fireworks displays is the predominant cause of dogs running away, they are also vulnerable because they are taken outside to cookouts and other celebrations. Cats may also experience high levels of anxiety from fireworks.
You should be certain that your dog has a tag with current contact information if you intend to take it to an Independence Day celebration. However, if your dog is terrified of fireworks, you may want to keep your dog safe and secure in your home.
A quiet location such as a basement is best, with soft ambient music being played. You might also consider a swaddling vest that is designed for dogs that have a fear of loud noises such as those made by fireworks and thunderstorms.
These vests are also fitted for cats, and create a constant light pressure that simulates the feeling of being hugged or swaddled.
Physical dangers from fireworks
Apart from the anxiety created by fireworks, your pets may also be physically injured or killed by people who accidentally or intentionally toss firecrackers in their direction. Some monstrous individuals will actually attach fireworks to trusting pets and light them to watch the pets run or suffer devastating injuries.
Even relatively benign sparklers can cause severe burns to pets who may walk on them after they have been burned and discarded onto the ground. The thin metal base of a sparkler remains very hot even when all the sparkling has ceased.
The most prevalent danger for pets is being hit by cars when they are running in fear from fireworks-induced anxiety. Animal hospitals around the country see many pets that have been struck by vehicles on July Fourth.
Cookouts
Pets smell the food on a grill, but don't realize the charcoal can burn them if they attempt to grab a piece of meat from the top. Keep all pets away from grills, even after the cookout is over. The grease may still be appealing and the charcoal still hot.
Children's glow sticks are also a less obvious but potential danger for pets on an Independence Day cookout. Though safer for kids, they can be toxic for pets.
Keep your four legged family members as safe as your human kids by being mindful of the dangers and taking steps to prevent tragedies on this happy day.
For an animal hospital, contact an organization such as Stroudsburg Animal Hospital.
