4th of July Safety for You and Your Pet

Fire up the grill, stock the coolers, and make a run to your local fireworks store, because the Fourth of July is here. While you’re enjoying one of our best national holidays with your friends, family, and neighbors -- make sure you don’t forget about your pet. At Deceased Pet Care, we want our (and your) pets to have a fun, happy, and above all, safe Fourth of July. We’ve compiled a quick list of safety and health tips to ensure every member of your family has the best Fourth yet.

WATCH DOGS

Fourth of July is an outside holiday extravaganza. Neighborhoods are brimming with extra visitors, not to mention families and extended families tend to fill every nook and cranny of parks, driveways, and backyards. All this extra chaos and activity can be confusing for your pet. That’s why you need to keep an extra eye on your dog during Independence day. There is traditionally a 30% increase in lost pets from July 4th-6th, and July fifth is one of pet shelter’s busiest days for lost pets.

If you lose track of your favorite pooch, before panicking make sure you contact your local shelter. Better yet, make sure all gates are securely locked during the day, and if you're out with a pet, keep them on a leash if at all possible (your city laws may even require it)!

COZY & COMFORTABLE

One way to ensure your pet is safe during the busy and often dangerous holiday is provide them with a little extra comfort. If your dog or cat tends to get scared or frustrated in unusual situations, go out of your way to make them more comfortable. Give your dog a fluffy blanket to nuzzle in, or your catch a new toy to distract it for hours.

Sometimes it is necessary to put your dog in a cage, in which case, make sure your check on them frequently, give them a comfortable pillow to lay down on, and a snack/toy to keep them occupied.

DANGERS ABOUND

We all know the basics like don’t hold a lit firework in your hand, always follow instructions, and make sure the grass is wet before setting off any fireworks. Sadly, most of us aren’t nearly as informed when it comes to our pets. There are several prevalent happenings on fourth of July that can cause serious harm to your beloved pet.

1: Don’t let your pet sniff around, naw on, or play with used fireworks. They often contain several potentially toxic substances from arsenic to unsafe metals.

2: Matches and lighter fluid can also cause serious damage to your pet. Skin irritation if contact is made with sensitive areas like paws and noses, as well as potential breathing and kidney damage if ingested.

3: Accordings to the ASPCA, insect repellent such as bug spray, candles, and coils, can cause damage to your pet’s nervous system if ingested. So keep a close watch.

MAY I SEE YOUR I.D, PLEASE?

After considering these health and safety opportunities, you’re still going to want to share this special holiday with your pet. With proper care, knowledge, and application there’s no need to worry. After applying all the above information, just make sure your pet’s collar is on, tag is clearly visible, and contact information is up to date. There’s no reason your pet can’t enjoy the day off with you.

So did you like our list? Is there anything we missed? Do you have any tips or trick to help you through the Fourth of July? Let us know below. At Deceased Pet Care, we’re always looking to ensure your pet is safe, happy, and healthy; today and for years to come.

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