As Independence Day approaches, families across the United States prepare to celebrate with fireworks, barbecues, and gatherings. While the festivities can be enjoyable, they pose significant hazards to cats and dogs. Fireworks’ startling noises and bright lights, coupled with festive foods that are toxic to pets, can make July Fourth a stressful and dangerous time for your four-legged friend. To maintain your furry pal’s safety, our Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital team describes the risks and explains preventive measures you can take to ensure your pet stays safe during the festivities.

Fireworks fears in pets

For many cats and dogs, fireworks can be unsettling, if not downright terrifying. The blinding lights and booming noises can trigger anxiety and panic, causing pets to run away in fear. This can cause them to get lost or injured as they attempt to escape the chaos. To help your pet cope when the fireworks boom, follow these tips:

  • Keep your pet indoors — Create a safe and quiet space indoors where your pet can retreat during fireworks displays. Close windows and curtains to minimize the noise and visual stimuli. Stay with your pet during the fireworks display, or ask a family member or friend your pet trusts to stay with your furry pal.
  • Provide distractions — Give your pet toys and treats, and play soothing music to help drown out the fireworks noise. These distractions can redirect your pet’s focus to something pleasant.
  • Use calming aids — Use calming pheromone diffusers or sprays in your four-legged friend’s quiet room. You can also outfit them in an anxiety vest, which can counteract their stress by putting gentle pressure on your pet’s torso.
  • Ensure identification — Ensure that your pet’s collar fits well and that the information on their identification tag is up to date. In addition, have your pet microchipped, which is the most permanent identification form for pets. Our team can insert your pet’s microchip easily and quickly during a vet visit.

The grill and food can be hazardous to pets

Gathering with friends and family to barbecue is a common July Fourth activity, but the grill and holiday goodies can harm your pet if they consume certain foods or come into contact with a hot grill. To prevent grill- and food-related veterinary emergencies, follow these tips:

  • Keep food out of reach — Store food and garbage securely to prevent your curious pet from accessing potentially harmful items such as bones, skewers, chocolate, onions, garlic, and grapes. Check out the ASPCA’s list of pet-toxic foods to learn more.
  • Monitor grill activity — Keep your furry pal away from a hot grill to prevent them from getting burned or accidentally ingesting toxic substances such as lighter fluid. If possible, section off the grill area to keep your pet away.
  • Provide pet-friendly treats — Offer your four-legged friend their own treats to deter them from begging for human food. Additionally, remind all guests that they should not feed your pet table scraps.

Hot weather precautions for pets

July Fourth often coincides with hot and humid summer weather, which poses heatstroke and sunburn risks for pets spending time outdoors. Follow these heat awareness tips to protect your pet:

  • Provide water and shade — Always offer plenty of fresh water in multiple bowls in the yard to help ensure your pet stays hydrated. If your outdoor area isn’t shady, put up umbrellas to provide your pet with relief from the ultraviolet (UV) rays.
  • Limit outdoor activity — Rather than engaging your pet in strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day, opt for walks or playtime in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
  • Use pet-safe sunscreen — Many pets, especially those with short, light-colored fur, can develop sunburn from spending time outdoors. Apply pet-formulated sunscreen to exposed areas of your pet’s skin, focusing on the ear tips, nose, and other places where the fur is sparse.

By taking proactive measures to minimize risks and create a safe environment for your furry friend, you can ensure they will enjoy the July Fourth festivities alongside you, free from harm and anxiety. Celebrate responsibly by prioritizing your pet’s well-being this Independence Day. Contact our Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital team with questions or concerns about your pet’s risk.