Top Ten Pet Fourth of July Safety Tips from Your Brooklyn Veterinarian
Though the Fourth of July is a fun day to spend in the outdoors with your family and friends, it can be a scary holiday for pets. More pets go missing on Independence Day than on any other day of the year, and many more become ill from ingesting harmful items. Our Brooklyn veterinarian offers the following ten tips to keep your pets safe this holiday.
- Identify - Ensure your pet has identifying tags with your current information, or better yet, has a microchip. The noise of the holiday frightens pets, and they will often run away, looking for a place to hide.
- No Fireworks - Fireworks and pets do not mix. Make sure pets are safely indoors before the sparklers come out.
- No Human Food - Many cook-out foods are toxic for cats and dogs.
- No Alcohol - Even if your pet is 21 in doggy-years, alcohol is toxic and can make your pet sick. If pets are around, keep drinks off the ground.
- No Insect Repellant or Citronella - Unless you use a pet-safe brand, these items are meant for human use.
- No Lighter Fluid or Matches - Another item toxic to pets
- Remember Heat Safety - Make sure outdoor pets have access to shade and plenty of water.
- No Glow Jewelry - The chemicals in these festive items will poison your pet if ingested.
- Use Calming Products - Security vests and special diffusers can help calm your pet during the celebration.
- Keep Pets Inside - The best defense for your pets is to keep them indoors, in a quiet spot.
Keep Pets Safe Year-Round – Schedule a Wellness Exam with our Veterinarian in Brooklyn
Schedule your pet's annual wellness exam with our veterinarian in Brooklyn to discuss the best pet-friendly insect repellent products and calming products to keep your pet safe and happy on July 4th and throughout summer. Contact our office (718) 623-3999 to schedule an appointment and ask about free consultations for new patients.
How does your family celebrate the Fourth?