Because of the Covid-19 Pandemic, many cities have canceled their usual celebrations and fireworks displays. Not all fireworks shows have been shut down however. Here is a list of fireworks shows that WILL be happening this year. You will notice that many of your local celebrations have been canceled. The pandemic has many people in the area looking to put on their own parties and fireworks extravaganzas!
Fireworks, barbecues, and other Fourth of July traditions can be great fun for us humans; but those festivities can be frightening and possibly even dangerous for furbabies. Loud fireworks and other celebrations can give your pet anxiety and cause them to run away; holiday foods can be dangerous; summer heat and travel can be dangerous; and potentially dangerous debris can end up lying on the ground where pets can eat or play with it.
Whether or not you’re planning your own Independence Day celebration, it’s important to take precautions to keep your pets safe both during and after the Fourth of July festivities.
Tips for preparing in advance:
Make sure your pets – cats and dogs alike – have identification tags with updated information.
If your pets aren’t already microchipped, talk with your veterinarian about microchipping. This simple procedure can greatly improve your chances of getting your pets back if they become lost.
If your pets are microchipped, make sure your contact information in the microchip registry is up-to-date.
Take a current photo of all of your furbabies – just in case.
If your pet has historically been anxious on this holiday, has issues with loud noises like thunder, or if you have reason to expect potentially harmful reactions, consider behavioral therapy to desensitize your pet and reduce the risk of problems. Some pets may need medication. If your pet needs medication, be sure to consult your veterinarian before the 4th.
Make sure your pet’s environment is safe and secure. If your neighbors set off fireworks at an unexpected time, is your yard secure enough to keep your pet contained? Evaluate your options, and choose the safest area for your animals; and make improvements if needed to make the area more secure.
If you’re planning on leaving your pet home and your yard is not secure, consider having your favorite Furbaby Pet Caregiver stay with your pet.
Tips for safety during July 4 celebrations:
Leave your pets with a Caregiver when you go to parties, one of the few fireworks displays or parades in the area, and other gatherings. If you’re thinking of taking your pet with you, please keep in mind that loud fireworks in unfamiliar places with crowds can all be very frightening to pets, and there’s a great risk of pets becoming spooked and running away.
If you’re hosting guests, ask them to help keep an eye on your pets to make sure they don’t escape. Placing notes on exit doors and gates can help both you and your guests remain vigilant.
Keep your pets inside if you or your neighbors are setting off fireworks.
Keep sparklers, glow sticks, fireworks, charcoal, kabob skewers, and corn on the cob away from curious pets. (As a Vet Tech for 13 years, I’ve had to remove corn on the cob from too many pups tummies!!)
Don’t let your furbabies get near your barbecue grill while it is in use or still hot.
Avoid the urge to feed your pets table scraps or other foods intended for people. Be especially careful to keep them away from these common foods that are actually toxic.
Remember that too much sun and heat (and humidity!) can be dangerous to pets. Keep them inside when it’s extremely hot/humid; make sure they have access to shady spots and plenty of water when outdoors; don’t leave them outside for extended periods in hot weather; and know the signs that a pet may be overheating.
Never leave your pet in your car when it’s warm outside. Vehicle interiors heat up much faster than the air around them, and even a short time in a locked car can be dangerous to pets.
If you’re travelling out of town for the holiday, consider leaving your pets at home with a Furbaby Pet Caregiver. If you need to bring them with you, be sure you know how to keep them safe.
BONUS for Covid-19: Follow safe food handling and hygiene practices to protect your family and guests.
After the celebrations:
Check your yard for fireworks debris before allowing pets outside to play or lounge around. Even if you didn’t set off fireworks yourself, debris can make its way into your yard, where curious animals may pick it up to play with or eat.
If you hosted guests, check both your yard and home for food scraps or other debris that might be dangerous to pets, such as food skewers.
We hope that these tips will help you enjoy the 4th of July and know that your pet is safe and happy!
Consider letting your pet stay with Furbaby Pet Services during parties and fireworks. The entire Furbaby Team will be working on the fourth of July so that you can enjoy the holiday knowing your pet isn’t stuck in a cage somewhere.
If you’re planning to go out (or even entertain at home), have Furbaby Pet Services care for your pet while you celebrate Independence Day!
If you’re new to the Furbaby Family, schedule a free Meet & Greet to see what cage-free pet care can do for your furbaby. Come see what all the dogs are barking about!
