Fourth of July Pet Safety Tips
It’s officially summertime and we are quickly approaching the Fourth of July holiday weekend, which means lots of fireworks and scary noises for our pets. Unfortunately, more dogs go missing over this holiday than any other, so Wags & Walks is here to help you keep your beloved pup safe, while preventing more animals from entering the already crowded shelter system. Here are our top tips for keeping your pup safe this holiday weekend!
Tag & Microchip Your Pet
The biggest fear during fireworks and loud celebrations is the possibility of losing your four-legged bestie. Make sure your pet is wearing a properly fitted, sturdy collar with an up to date ID tag and ensure that their microchip info is also current.
ID Tags - If your furry companion doesn’t have an ID tag, head to your nearest pet retailer. There are even GPS tracking tags that help you track where pup is if they manage to get out.
Microchips - If you aren’t sure about the status of your pet’s microchip or they aren’t yet chipped, schedule an appointment with your vet before the 4th. Once their chip has been placed and/or checked, you can view its status online here.
Keep Your Dog Indoors
This is crucial! Dogs’ hearing is up to 4 times more sensitive than ours, so loud noises often lead them to extreme panic, leaping fences, and possibly running away. Make sure doors are shut and windows are closed during fireworks and celebrations. Keeping your pup secured inside will ensure their safety and could even save their life.
Create an Extra Safe Space
When your pet is anxious, it’s important to have a designated area for them to hunker down - ideally this would be a crate indoors. Shop high quality crates on Amazon. Make a crate cozy with their bed or blanket and treat them to a chew toy filled with peanut butter. You can even use the TV or relaxing music to drown out the craziness outside. Most importantly, be there for them. During times of stress, your face and touch will provide lots of comfort.
Extra Anxious Pups
Some pets are more nervous than others and that’s okay! As long as you plan ahead, they can make it through the holiday weekend safely and comfortably. We highly recommend getting outdoors with your dog early in the day for lots of exercise to help ease their nerves. Pet parents should also consider looking into anxiety reducing vests and supplements like Holistapet’s Calming Chews or Melatonin to help keep their dog calm! In addition, we suggest asking your vet about the use of stress relieving medications or going to a trusted trainer for guidance.
If Your Pet Is Lost
If your dog manages to get out, you should check your local shelter, use recent photos to post flyers in your area and share on social media sites like Facebook, Instagram and Nextdoor. If your dog is adopted from a rescue like Wags & Walks, be sure to let them know. We love your dog as much as you do and will do our best to help you find them. If you are looking for a lost pet or happen to find a stray you can find tips and guidance here.
We hope these Fourth of July safety tips will help you and your beloved pup have a safe and happy holiday!
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Love,
Team Wags