Tag: pet safety

Fireworks Safety: Protect Your Pet This Summer!

Posted on by Margaret Langworthy
Dog with Fireworks decor

The Fourth of July may be over, but with Pioneer Day just around the corner and plenty of warm summer days ahead, we know that the fireworks season is still in full swing! We want everyone to have a fun and safe summer, including your beloved pets. Fireworks season can be a stressful time for many pet guardians. By following some simple fireworks safety tips you can help your furry friends stay safe and comfortable while you enjoy your favorite summer celebrations!

Fireworks Safety Tips

Do you love a good fireworks display? We don’t blame you! Fireworks can be a fun way to celebrate. But your pet may not be so keen. Consider leaving your pets at home when you go to marvel at your favorite fireworks show. And if you hear fireworks nearby, it may be time to bring Fido or Mittens inside. Pets can be startled by the crowds and loud noises and may be tempted to flee or accidentally injure themselves. Indoors is the safest place for your pet when the fireworks start.

  • Give your pet a comfortable space where they can feel secure. This can be a crate filled with their favorite toys and blankets or an inner room away from doors and windows. Make sure they have access to fresh water, and don’t try to coax them out before they are ready!
  • White noise like a fan, air purifier, or soft music may help your pet relax and drown out noise from outside. 
  • If your pet has access to a yard during fireworks season, make sure all fencing is secure and double-check that gates are closed at all times. 
  • In case of escape, make sure your pet has up-to-date ID tags and microchip information. If your pet does escape, contact your local municipal animal shelter as soon as possible. You can also post on online or social media lost and found pages. 
  • Keep your pets away from any leftover fireworks debris as the contents may be harmful.
Heeler dog standing with people

Make Your Celebrations Fun and Safe!

Summer is a time for fireworks, but also a time for social gatherings. We all love a good picnic in the park with friends or a neighborhood block party. These events are supposed to be fun, and with the right precautions you can make sure they are comfortable and low-stress for your pets.

  • Know your pet’s temperament. Fluffy may love socializing with your friends and neighbors at the annual backyard party! But if she doesn’t, there’s no need to force it. Give your pet a comfortable place to hide from the action if they don’t want to interact with your guests. 
  • Keep a careful eye on your pet around the food table, and discard scraps promptly. Many foods that we enjoy can be harmful to our pets. Onions, garlic, grapes, certain peanut butter brands, and chocolate can all be very dangerous. For more information, you can read our blog post on Toxic Items. 
  • If you bring your pet with you to any social gatherings, talk to the host ahead of time and make sure they will be comfortable and welcome in the space. Ask about any rules, limitations, or other pets who may be attending. When in doubt, it is okay to leave your pet at home and plan something else fun and special just for them! 

We want this summer to be fun and safe for everyone. With a little bit of planning and the right tools, you can make sure your summer celebrations are enjoyable for the whole family – four-legged family members included! 

Feeling PAW-triatic? Firework Safety Tips for Pets

Posted on by Guinn

Firework season can be a scary time for pets. Keep your pets safe by following these tips.

  • Exercise your pet on the morning of the holidays when you think there may be fireworks
    • This will get extra anxiety out and calm your pet down before the night begins
  • Keep pets inside and away from loud noises 
    • It’s a good idea to create a safe space where pets feel secure inside the house. Use an inner room away from windows or a crate filled with your pet’s favorite toys and bedding. Keep a light or two on and consider turning the TV or radio on for some calming background noise. If your pet hides somewhere in this safe space, allow them to do so. Do not try to coax them out, as hiding is a natural coping mechanism for animals. Make sure pets always have fresh water available
  • Leave your pets home while venturing out to loud and crowded places
    • Fido and Fluffy don’t want to go with you to your local fireworks display! Again, make sure they have a safe place to stay while you’re out
  • Pets may be tempted to run if startled by loud noises. Ensure that outdoor areas are securely fenced and your pets cannot get out of your yard
    • In case of an escape, have microchips and valid ID tags on all of your pets and make sure information is current and accurate
    • If your pet escapes during the firework show contact your local animal shelter, post online or on social media lost and found pages
  • Check with your veterinarian for additional help
    • For especially anxious pets, they may suggest a snug t-shirt to make your pet feel secure or prescribe medication to use during the holidays. If your pet is prescribed a medication, never share this with other pets or give your animal more than the recommended dose
  • Be aware that anxiety may last longer than the fireworks display
    • If your pet still seems on edge after the fireworks are over or even the next morning, continue to keep them inside and surrounded by calming things, such as their favorite treats or toys. Make sure that you’ve cleaned up any party debris before allowing your pet free reign of the yard again