4th of July Pet Safety Tips

While Independence Day sparks a lot of joy and revelry, it can also present certain risks to pet safety. In addition to the various toxins readily available to sniffing noses and curious taste buds, this particular holiday is infamous for the spike in lost or separated pets. Luckily, with a little extra planning and consideration, pet owners can help their best friends stay safe, healthy and calm./p>

The Stats Are In

Animal control specialists and shelters say that the first week of July is significantly busier than other times of the year. In fact, numbers of stray or wandering pets increase up to 60% around the Fourth of July.

The surge can be explained by a few factors. For one, fireworks are largely to blame for triggering a pet’s fight-or-flight instinct. If a pet is caught outside during an unpredictable display, whether professional or the backyard variety, they may try to flee the scene in any direction possible. This leads to accidental separation as many disoriented pets can’t find their ways back home which may end up in permanent loss.

What’s worse is that pets can run into traffic resulting in terrible injuries or even fatalities.

Always Chip and ID

If it’s been a little while since your pet was microchipped, and you’ve since relocated, be sure to get your contact information updated with the chip’s manufacturer. If your pet hasn’t received their chip yet, we are happy to discuss the simple, painless procedure with you anytime. It could make all the difference on July 4th.

A pet’s ID tags can also have a huge impact on whether they are returned to their rightful owners. Sometimes, tags may start to wear over time, or a phone number or address may have changed. This is the perfect time to get a refreshed tag and maybe even a new reflective leash and collar.

Fireworks and Pets

We have seen the full range of reactions from pets regarding noise. Some don’t react at all; others become very agitated, fearful, and stressed. Even if your pet has previously shown a relative calm demeanor around loud noises, it’s best not to assume that they will always react that way. Allowing a pet to simply accept the jarring sounds of a fireworks display can lead to serious panicking, injury, or loss.

• Create a safe, quiet place for them to hang out while the booms, pops, and sizzles are happening.
• If they like their crate, set them up inside it with cozy bedding, toys, puzzle treats, and plenty of fresh water.
• Stay with your pet if you can or ask someone else to sit with them during the celebrations. Never allow your pet to stay outside alone.

The Signs of Pet Anxiety

If you see your pet pacing, drooling, yawning, hiding, clinging to you, or vocalizing, they may need help with pet anxiety.

• Synthetic pheromone sprays or diffusers can promote feelings of relaxation and calmness.
• Thundershirts of other specially designed pressure wraps can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
• Desensitizing techniques can teach coping skills, and reinforce feelings of stability and understanding.
• Prescription medication can be a game-changer for some pets that cannot calm themselves down.

If you have questions or concerns about your pet’s behavior please don’t hesitate to call us at (805) 957-7387. Western Veterinary Center is always here to help.