July 4th is the biggest day of the year for reporting lost dogs. So here are six tips to keep yours safe during the holiday weekend.
1. Keep them away from fireworks. Both dogs and cats are more sensitive to loud noises than we are, so fireworks going off near the house can be traumatizing for them.
And keeping them inside will protect them from stray fireworks . . . or from any idiots who might INTENTIONALLY set off fireworks near them.
2. Make their space as comfortable as possible. Close the windows and put on some music or the TV to mask the sounds of any fireworks.
If they hide in a different room than usual, like a bathroom or the basement, make sure they have food and water, and move their bed and toys in there to comfort them.
3. Make sure they have their collar on. According to the American Humane Society, July 5th is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters in the United States, thanks to scared pets running away from fireworks.
So if you DO have your dog outside, make sure they’re on a leash, and have their collar and tags on.
4. Keep them away from people food. It’s tempting to hand your dog a steak or chicken bone, but it can be deadly if it gets stuck . . . especially if they’re not used to it.
5. Keep them out of cars. Don’t leave your dog in a parked car, even at night during a fireworks show.
Fourth of July is one of the hottest holidays of the year, and even at 70 degrees, internal car temperatures can reach more than 100 degrees in just minutes.
6. It’s not just about the food and the fireworks this weekend . . . there are LOTS of things that need to be kept away from your dog. We’re talking lighter fluid and matches . . . barbecue grills . . . and camp fires.
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