Tips for A Pet-Friendly Independence Day

posted on Wednesday, June 29, 2016 in News

Fourth of July DogFriends, bonfires, and fireworks make for a great 4th of July celebration, but keep your pet's safety in mind. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and happy holiday:

  • Provide a safe place for your pet to relax away from guests. Check in on your pet every now and then to give them the attention they need and reassure them you are still there.
  • If you're grilling or having a bonfire, keep matches, lighter fluid and other toxic substances out of pets' reach.
  • Read labels on sunscreen and insect repellent and do not use on animals unless specifically labeled for pet use.
  • Keep food and beverages where pets can’t sneak a bite or sip. No one wants to interrupt their holiday with a trip to the emergency room.
  • Tell guests to close doors tightly behind them when going in and out of the house. Have everyone pitch in to make sure your pets stay safely indoors.
  • Leave your pets at home during fireworks displays. Loud noises can be startling and your pet's reaction may be to bolt away. They'll prefer a quieter, more comfortable place away from all the noise.
  • Make sure your pet is wearing an ID tag and has been microchipped to give them a higher chance of being reunited with you if they get loose.
  • After the festivities are over, check your yard to ensure no sparklers or other items from your celebration are laying around where your dog or other animals can get into them.

ThunderShirts Available at ARL Main
For dogs that tend to be anxious around loud noises or a lot of guests, a ThunderShirt may help to soothe them. The shirt wraps around the body applying gentle, constant pressure to provide a calming effect, similar to swaddling an infant. Pick one up at ARL Main before the barbeques and fireworks begin!