4th Of July & Dogs | Independence Day Safety Tips

Many celebrate Independence Day with fireworks and festivities, creating happy memories. It’s important to remember that our furry friends may not enjoy fireworks and other parts of the celebration.

You’ll have three main worries for your pup during Independence Day.

1. Fireworks: Dogs are innately afraid of loud and unpredictable noises like fireworks.
2. Escapes: As a fear response to unknown stimuli, many dogs go missing on Independence Day.
3. Heat: If you celebrate outdoors with your dog, keep them hydrated and cool.

While we’re celebrating, follow these 4th of July pet safety tips to ensure your pet’s well-being during the holiday.

Before The Celebration

• Make sure your dog has a collar with up-to-date contact information.
• If your dog is an escape artist, invest in a Fi-Compatible Collar with GPS tracking and an engraved collar.
• Visit the vet to microchip them for added security. If they already are, ensure the contact info in the microchip registry is current.
• Take an updated photo of all of your pets.
• If your dog is historically anxious, speak with a veterinarian to discuss medication options.
• Hire a pet sitter or call boarding kennels ahead of time if you’re traveling. Make sure their vaxxes against Bordetella (kennel cough), Rabies, and DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) are up to date.
• Check the security of your fences and gates to ensure they are dig-proof.
• Exercising with your dog before fireworks can significantly reduce their anxiety.
• Feed your dog an early dinner and take them out to pee well before the fireworks start.

During The Celebration

• Consider leaving your pets at home unless you have a foolproof safety plan. If you’re hosting a party, ask guests to close doors and watch your dog so they don’t escape or get too close to the grill.
• Keep sparklers, glow sticks, fireworks, charcoal, and kabob skewers away from your pet’s reach.
• Give your dog a safe, shaded, and comfortable indoor space. This can be a crate or dog bed inside a soundproofed room. You can also set up baby gates in a designated area.
• Stimulate your dog with toys, treats, cuddles/comfort, and playtime if they show anxiety.
• Ensure your dog has a flotation device if they’re on a boat.

After The Celebration

Check your yard for sparklers, glow sticks, insect repellant, sunscreen, broken glass, fireworks, kabob skewers, chocolate, and other harmful items.

Avoid These 4th Of July Pet Safety Don’t’s

• Do not feed your dog table scraps containing harmful ingredients that are toxic to dogs.
• Do not leave your dog in your car without air conditioning or at all for an extended period.
• Do not leave your dog unattended while you’re on vacation. Either hire a pet sitter or take them to a boarding facility.
• Do not apply sunscreen and insect repellent to your dog that isn’t labeled as safe for dogs.
• Do not bring your dog to fireworks displays, Loud noises can frighten pets.
• Do not punish your dog or ignore them when they show signs of anxiety.