@suzanagartner
Wishing everyone in the US a Happy Holiday and Independence Day!
Knowing how to prepare your pet and keep them safe and calm during these festivities can go a long way and make a huge difference for you to really enjoy the day.
Here are a few tips to keep your pets safe and happy:
1. Loud Noises & Fireworks
Although the 4th of July is synonymous with festivities, fun and fireworks, it can be a scary time for your furry friends. These loud noises and all that commotion can cause your pets to become stressed out or even run away.
To protect your pets, please keep them away from the noise. You can create a safe space where they feel comfortable and secure. For example, turn on the television or play calming, relaxing, soothing music which can help them feel safe and provide them with a calm atmosphere. Remember, dogs can hear much better than humans so these loud noises can be especially alarming.
2. People, Parties, & Pets
Many people partake in gatherings and festivities with family, and friends, and want to include their companion animals. However, your pet may not enjoy strangers and other people petting them. I know that cats can be good at hiding away and keeping away from the festivities. Dogs, on the other hand, may seem friendly but they are scared and it’s not worth the risk of upsetting them and facing an unpleasant encounter. If you are hosting a party with familiar friends/family members, it may be fine to let your dog join in initially to greet guests. I would recommend keeping them on a leash and putting them inside the house.
Although guests might be amused by your furry friends and start feeding your dog or other pet human food this may be a problem, especially if kids are there. Instead, you can offer your guests a few treats and after that take them away. For instance, our family rescue dog, Oakley (pictured here), has a sensitive stomach, and he tends to get excited and jump on guests so these are two reasons to keep him away. We usually let him greet guests on a leash and give him a yummy Kong filled with frozen dinner/treats and place him in his crate. You know your dog (and your other pets) the best so you can make it fun for them too. This can be a great time to give them an extra yummy treat or a safe toy that can provide them with distraction and some amusement.
3. Exercise & Playtime with Your Pets:
You can take further precautions to keep your pet safe, and more calm. For instance, you can take your dog for a long walk and exercise them by playing fetch and to tire them out beforehand. This act can be an act of kindness for both of you and your dog to be relaxed when they are tired. You can play with your cat or other furry family members and engage them so they have some social interaction and then you can keep them upstairs.
4. Stay Updated on Microchip & ID Tags:
You should be up to date on your pet’s microchip information and ID tag in case they run out of the house. Also, you might want to notify your neighbours if you decide to let your dog go outdoors although I would not suggest that as you are taking a risk.
5. Keep Your Pets Indoors:
Please consider these tips to protect your pets by keeping them inside during the festivities. Sadly, there are so many pets that get lost during this 4th of July weekend and animal shelters get flooded with lost pets.
Lastly, you know your pet’s personality and quirks better than anyone else. For that reason, you can apply techniques and strategies that work best to keep your pet calm. After all, when our beloved furry friends are safe and protected, we can enjoy ourselves.
If you take the necessary precautions and prepare ahead of time, you can keep your pet safe and have a happy 4th of July Independence Day holiday.