Four for the 4th: Pet Safety Tips

Four for the 4th: Pet Safety Tips

Barbeques, fireworks, and fun—the 4th of July is a great holiday, but it can bring some hazards for your pet. Here are some tips for keeping your animal friend safe while you celebrate:

Fireworks are cool, but the racket is terrifying for many animals. Keep your pets at home and inside with calm music or white noise on. If your pet has an extreme reaction to the noise such as heavy panting, drooling, shaking, hiding, or trying to escape, your Garden Valley veterinarian may be able to help with medication or herbal remedies.

Grilling is tasty, but cooked meat bones often splinter and become hazardous if swallowed. Nix the corn cobs, too—they can cause intestinal blockage.

No alcohol for animals! Booze can dangerously intoxicate your pet and could result in coma or in severe cases, respiratory failure. Yes, this includes beer—fermented hops and ethanol are poisonous to both dogs and cats.

Heat can kill. Don’t leave pets in unattended vehicles and If your pet is outdoors, make sure there’s plenty of fresh water and shade.

If you think your pet might need medication to deal with fireworks or have any other questions about pet safety during the holiday, contact us!