Fireworks & Your Dog

As fun as fireworks can be for us humans, unfortunately, they are quite the opposite to most dogs. More dogs run away on July 4th than any other day of the year. Not only are fireworks loud and terrifying, but improperly disposed fireworks or large groups of people also pose a risk for dogs.

Preparing:
Make sure your pup has updated identification tags, in the event that they do run off. If your pet is micro-chipped, contact the vet to ensure your contact information is up to date. Ensure you have current, updated, clear photos of your pets.

If you are leaving the house, bring your pets inside (even if you have a fenced in yard) in case neighbors set off fireworks close by, your dog may be able to jump higher than expected when frightened or be forced to find an emergency escape route. Even if you think your dog will be fine, losing your pet is not a risk worth taking.

Safety:
Even if you think your dog is "calm" around other unexpected loud activities, it's best to leave your pet at home where they will feel safe and away from loud noises. Do not bring your pet with you to view fireworks or to any unfamiliar territory where there will be any fireworks of any kind.
Keep your pet inside if neighbors are shooting off fireworks
Keep sparklers, glow sticks, fireworks, charcoal, and skewers away from curious pets
Don't let pets go near your barbecue grill while in use or still hot
Keep pets away from lighter fluid and matches - ingestion can be toxic
Remember that too much sun and heat (and humidity) can be dangerous to pets. Keep them inside when it's extremely hot/humid.
Provide a safe space from loud noises with their favorite comforting blankets, toys, etc.
Leave the TV or radio on, or any other comforting, relaxing background noise to provide them with some comfort
Use pet-friendly insect repellents and sunscreens, this includes oils, candles, insect coils, and other citronella-based repellants
Don't forget that alcohol is TOXIC to dogs - if ingested, signs of poisoning include weakness, depression, difficulty breathing, hypoglycemia, or coma/death. You may think they are just "intoxicated", but they aren't!
Keep in mind that some foods that are great tasting for us are toxic or bad for our dogs! Be aware when grilling out or having others over that they don't get fed table scraps!

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