Written by Ben Cox – With fireworks imminent today, many people are taking safety precautions when it comes to viewing them and even setting off their own. But one precaution that is easy to make is often overlooked.
Many pets are scared by the loud noises and bright lights of fireworks, and can hurt themselves and others if proper precautions are not taken. More dogs are reported missing on July 4th, than any other day of the year.
The American Veterinary Medical Association offers several tips on how to keep your animals safe and secure during the celebrations. Make sure their tags are up to date with current contact information, take a current picture of your animals in case you need them, and also leave your fur babies at home for the night.
For larger animals like horses and cattle, the AVMA suggests leaving them in fenced in areas and as far away from the events as possible.
You are urged to check your yard thoroughly for any debris that may have fallen if you set off your own fireworks, and check your car and the floor of your vehicle for any debris you may have tracked in after walking across fallen shells, as the materials are often toxic.
PetMD.com suggests using pet friendly insect repellant and sunscreen, avoid feeding your animals scraps of food from the BBQ table as many of them are possible hazards to your pets. Chocolate, onions, beer and other traditional 4th of July foods can be very harmful to small animals. The website says to also be mindful of matches and lighter fluid from the grill or smoker as they can cause breathing problems if swallowed by your animal.
Keeping your contact for your veterinarian handy is also a good idea, as well as the national poison helpline, 855-213-6680, incase your animal gets into something they shouldn’t. Have a happy and safe 4th of July, both you and your pets.
