It’s the time of year to celebrate Independence Day! It is an annual Federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and registering as a country, the United States of America. We typically celebrate with family, friends, fireworks, and good times. However, our furry friends don’t enjoy the holiday as much as we do, so we here at Wayside thought it would be helpful to provide tips on Fourth of July safety for our four-legged family members.
1. Have updated ID and photos of all your pets. 
This goes without saying, but sometimes the animals get so nervous and scared they might try to run off and find a safe place. Having proper identification and updated photos greatly increases their chances of coming home sooner. At our store Whiskers & Wags, we sell a variety of collars and ID tags that you can purchase on campus.
2. Leave your pets at home.
To avoid something like a lost pet happening, and to ease your furry friends’ stress, consider leaving them at home for the celebration. Most pets do not want to be near fireworks when they are set off, and find the most comfort at home. Please do not lock them in the car either, because they could suffer from heat stroke and/or brain damage. Consider creating a safe place for them. A downstairs area without windows or doors where they can relax and be away from loud noises.
3. Don’t put insect repellant on your pet.
This also should go without saying, but if your family is having a get-together and you would like to take your pets before the fireworks show, do not put insect repellant or sunscreen on your pet. There are certain ingredients in both that are poisonous for animals, and will have effects like neurological disorders and lethargy.
4. Never leave alcoholic beverages unattended to where your pets could reach them.
Dogs and cats are naturally curious, and if a beer or cocktail is left on the ground, they might consider knocking it over and drinking it. If consumed, the animal can get intoxicated and very weak, and could even go into a coma. Put those drinks on coasters on a high-rise table so they are unable to reach it, and provide fresh water for them to drink instead.
5. Keep your pet on their normal diet.
This is the time of year when people are barbecuing more and more because the weather is nice. And keep in mind that foods such as onions, chocolate, coffee, avocado, grapes, raisins, salt and yeast dough can all be potentially toxic to companion animals. Any change, even for one meal, can give your pet severe indigestion and diarrhea.
6. Play classical music.
Music can soothe an animal in times of stress, especially on the 4th of July. Having a CD playing on a loop can induce calmness and relaxation.
7. Don’t force your pet into a costume for the holiday.
It may seem cute to dress them up in the red, white, and blue, but unless your dog (or even less likely, your cat) loves to play dress-up, don’t push the issue. If they have a medical condition, some sort of loose clothing is definitely acceptable. Also, if your animal shuts down during the fireworks, consider purchasing a thunder shirt, which can be found at our store Whiskers & Wags. They are proven to help make animals feel safe and secure, while keeping anxiety levels down.
8. Use a Crate
If your dog is used to a crate, allow them to utilize this area for a safe place to rest. Provide them with something they enjoy (bones, chew toys, kongs etc.) They can feel content and safe while you won’t have to worry about them as much. It’s a win-win!
9. Consider getting calming treats and Adaptil collars
Calming treats and Adaptil/anti-anxiety collars are both sold in our retail store Whiskers & Wags, and they have been helpful to ease stress for our animals here. The collar mimics the dogs’ natural pheromone that helps ease tension, and can help them relax during a fireworks display, as long as they are indoors. Calming treats will help do the same things, and will taste good as well!
10. Brush up on flea/tick treatment/ask your vet about anti-anxiety meds.
Ticks and fleas are more abundant than ever because of the mild winter we had. They will find a host environment in dogs and cats, and during a celebration it might go unnoticed. We also sell seresto collars which help battle unwanted visitors for up to eight months. They will help during that barbecue and high heated areas! They can be found at our retail store Whiskers & Wags. Does your dog really have bad anxiety? Ask your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medicine, because sometimes that is the best thing to do.
These are just some tips that help our furry friends, and you, prepare for the celebratory holiday! Enjoy, and be safe! Our retail store Whiskers & Wags is open during our adoption hours, provided below.
Adoption Hours:
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 12:00-8:00
Wednesday: CLOSED for Holiday
Thursday: Noon-8pm
Friday: Noon-8pm
Saturday: 10am-5pm
Sunday: 10pm-5pm
Written by Teryn J.