1. Decide if it's best to leave your pet behind.
Fourth of July parades and fireworks displays can be overwhelming for even the most well-adjusted pet. While some dogs can stay composed in chaotic environments, most of them will feel much more comfortable staying at home.
Likewise, a cookout might seem like a fun place to take your dog, but it's important to anticipate and avoid potential dangers. Dr. Erin Katribe, medical director at Best Friends, and veterinarian Dr. Patti Patterson warn that dogs getting into trash, barbecue trimmings, other human food items or alcohol run the risk of stomach upset or severe illnesses like pancreatitis.
2. Bring animals indoors if you can.
Dr. Erin says that during the Fourth of July, it's best to keep dogs inside and confined, since they are prone to getting scared and getting out of yards. It's also a good time to check that your pet's ID tags and microchip are updated with your current contact information.
While indoor cats will already be in the house, cats with outdoor access should be brought inside well before the fireworks start. If you are a caregiver for free-roaming or community cats, you can give them safe places to hide, such as cat shelters or access to a garage.
It's also a good idea to get everyone settled in and fed before fireworks start, so they can eat peacefully.
3. Make your house a haven.
Some dogs with severe anxiety can injure themselves when they're afraid by breaking out of a crate or jumping through a window. Others may become destructive by chewing up household items. For those dogs, having their family at home with them can be a huge source of comfort and safety. Finding anti-anxiety remedies, playing loud music, and snug clothing items like "thundershirts" can also be very beneficial.
Pets do best when they are insulated from outside noise. Cat World team lead Heather Henley and caregiver Kendra Gardner suggest keeping cats as far removed from firework noises as possible with plenty of hiding spaces and turning up the music, television or the air conditioning unit. Heather also reminds pet owners to make sure the windows are closed and curtains are drawn to protect against the flashing lights.
4. Do a pet welfare check.
Some pets will shut down when they become frightened, and for some this can be dangerous. Extremely stressed rabbits and guinea pigs, for example, can go into GI stasis, a condition that can cause their digestive systems to stop working and possibly be fatal without immediate treatment.
You know your pet the best, so paying close attention to body language and normal daily habits can clue you in as to whether your pet needs an appointment with the vet or just a little extra comfort and reassurance. Our furry and feathered friends will never understand what all the commotion is about on Independence Day, but we can find ways to make it safe and happy for pets and people alike.
