Fourth of July, the Nation’s birthday, is a time for fun, family, friends, food, and fireworks in some areas. But for our furry friends, who aren’t used to the crowds, noises, amount of people, and certainly the boom of explosions, this can also a time of fear and anxiety.
The Ranch Pet and Resort and Spa offers these suggestions to keep your pets safe this Fourth of July.
- Keep your pets home while you enjoy Fourth of July festivities. Not only can the experience cause stress and anxiety, the hot weather can cause stroke or heat exhaustion.
- Put a GPS tag on your pet’s collar in the event it does escape. The Fourth of July is one of the busiest times of the year for already over-crowded shelters, and you want to make sure you get your dog or cat back.
- Bring your cats and dogs inside well before fireworks could possibly go off. Even in areas where fireworks are not allowed, some people will set them off. With your dog and cat inside the house, you eliminate, or at least severely decrease, the possibility that your pet can escape.
- Consider putting a Thundershirt or tight piece of clothing on your cat or dog to make it feel safe.
- Turn on the TV or radio to eliminate or diffuse the sounds of fireworks.
- Close all windows and doors. Close curtains to eliminate visual stimulation.
- Provide a safe and quiet space for your pet to retreat in the event it gets scared and wants to hide. A crate or room can serve as a safe place to retreat while you enjoy the nights’ events. Include toys, treats, and lots of blankets to hide under.
- Provide air conditioning, cooling blankets, and plenty of fresh water for your pets to keep cool.
- For severe trauma, ask your veterinarian about anxiety medications or CBD products.
- Consider hiring a pet sitter to stay with your dog or cat while you go out.
- Be very careful when opening the door or allowing your dog outside to go to the bathroom. Even the most well-behaved and most trusted dog can get spooked and run away.
- Make sure your dog or cat is wearing a collar with your current address or phone number on it.
- Put a leash or harness on your dog when taking it out to the bathroom in the event it gets spooked.
- Check all fences for loose boards and secure all latches on gates and doors.
- In the event your dog does escape, immediately put an alert out to your Neighborhood Outlets such as Nextdoor and social media platforms. Put up fliers around the neighborhood, vet offices, and make a report with your nearest animal shelter while you look for your dog.
- Microchip your pet! You have a much higher chance for getting your pet back.
Happy Fourth of July from The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa
The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa wishes you, your family, friends, and pets a very happy Fourth of July. Celebrating the birthday of our nation is a time to celebrate, and we want to make sure all of you enjoy the day while keeping your pets happy and safe as well!
