Independence Day calls for delicious food, celebration, and festive fireworks. Unfortunately, your pet may not be so thrilled about the noise. Veterinarians recommend that pet owners employ caution and keep their furry friend’s comfort in mind throughout the festivities. Here are the do’s and don’ts of keeping your pet safe on the Fourth of July.

Do:

Keep them at home.

You and your pet love spending time together, but there are some circumstances where staying at home is in their best interest. Loud fireworks, bright flashes, and excessive smoke can frighten your companion. Leave pets indoors if you’re going out to watch a firework display. Make sure your doors are locked securely to prevent panicked pets from bolting.

Create a safe place.

Even inside, your pet will likely hear any fireworks that are set off nearby. If there’s no one at home to offer comfort, do what you can to calm them. Place them in a quiet room or crate, equip them with an anxiety vest, give shirts or bedding with your scent, and surround them with their favorite toys.

Update their information.

If your pet panics and escapes, you should be certain that all of their identification is updated. Get them microchipped and update collar tags so that they show your current contact information. Microchipping allows veterinarians and animal shelters to quickly identify your pet and reach out to you when they’re found.

Don’t:

Leave out toxins.

Many common supplies used on the Fourth of July are detrimental to pet health. Keep potentially poisonous substances, like lighter fluid, insect repellent, sunscreen, and glow sticks, far out of your pet’s reach. If you suspect your pet has ingested any of these toxins, contact Animal Poison Control immediately.

Feed them scraps.

No matter how much they beg, don’t feed table scraps to your pet at the barbecue. Human food, like alcohol and onions, can be harmful or fatal to animals, so play it safe and leave the meal on your plate. Purchase pet-friendly treats if you’d like to indulge your furry friend on Independence Day.

For more pet safety tips, contact the knowledgeable team at The Pet Clinic in Honolulu, HI. These skilled veterinarians provide quality medical pet services, including laser therapy, dermatology, preventative healthcare, and nutritional counseling. In addition to cats and dogs, they also treat birds and other small animals. View their services online, or call (808) 946-5096 to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian.