The Fourth of July is a fun-filled holiday that many pet-owners like to include their furry friends in. Whether you’re hosting a cookout, heading to a fireworks show, or taking a trip, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Your pets are exposed to a number of threats; by staying on top of pet care, you can be confident they’re safe.

Do:

Protect their skin.

Most families spend Fourth of July outdoors. It’s important to remember that your pets can get sunburned, so invest in a pet-friendly sunblock from your local pet care store. Whenever possible, keep them in a shaded area and make sure they’re hydrated to prevent heatstroke. It’s wise to heed the same advice yourself so the sun doesn't cause any problems.

Keep them in a designated area.

Keeping your pet in a designated area accomplishes several tasks. It helps them feel more comfortable if you have a lot of guests and fireworks going on. It also keeps them away from foods, fires, and other threats. You can invest in a small temporary enclosure, or if you’re spending the day inside, create a private space in a back room. Add toys, a bed, and their favorite items to the space so they feel comfortable.

Don’t:

Expose them to bug spray.

Bug spray is a huge pet care threat. Chemicals like DEET can be toxic to pets, and citronella can interfere with their sense of smell. Advise guests to be careful whenever applying bug spray, as it may attach to your pet’s coat where they can lick it off later and still become sick.

Leave food & drinks out.

A hungry dog or cat will be tempted to snack on the Fourth of July foods while no one is looking, and this can create problems. Foods may upset their stomach or create GI issues. In some cases, they can even be toxic. Make sure food is well out of reach and ensure guests know not to feed anything to your pet.

Should an accident happen, see a pet care professional right away. Dells Animal Hospital is proud to treat pets throughout the Wisconsin Dells, WI, area, and you can count on a veterinarian working closely with you to find health care solutions. They handle a variety of services at their veterinary hospital, which you can learn more about online. For regular pet care tips and updates, connect on Facebook, and call (608) 253-7361 to schedule a wellness exam.