4th of July Pet Safety Tips

While we enjoy grilling food, spending time on the lake, and blowing things up to celebrate America's independence, it can be one of the most terrifying days of the year for our pets. Loud noises, intense summer heat, and potentially new strange places can be hard on them. Here are a few tips to make sure your pet has an enjoyable 4th of July as well.

1. Safe Space - My dog can't handle thunderstorms, much less a full on fireworks show. Make sure there is a quiet place indoors for your pet to be while fireworks go off. An interior room of a home or cabin that can muffle the noise works best.

2. Surprise Adventures - Taking your dog somewhere they have never been can lead to unsupervised adventures. Make sure if you are going out on a boat ride, or can't keep a direct eye on your dog that they are on a lease or in a fenced in area they can't escape from.

3. Unwanted Treats - 4th of July means grilled food. Some foods are ok for your dog to snack on like hotdogs, burgers, and veggies like zucchini and sweet potato. Do NOT let your dog have any bones. The bones from grilled food splinter easily and can cause health hazards. Make sure your guests know what the rules are when it comes to feeding your dog!

4. Keep Cool - Highs this week will be consistently in the mid to upper 80's. Make sure wherever you and your pets are make sure there is shade, and fresh water. No one wants heat stroke. Pro tip: I've never met a dog that didn't like crunching on ice cubes!

Have a safe and happy 4th of July!

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