July 4th, in the United States, is a happy occasion for humans. People have BBQs, pool parties, neighborhood get-togethers, carnivals and loads more. There was one year that I even hosted a 4th of July party! I was a great hostess and everyone had a fantastic time at my party!
I happen to like all of the events that occur on July 4th, EVEN fireworks. Fireworks are loud and scary for some dogs but I think they are wonderful! I especially like the ones that have red or pink in them. Those are beautiful! You might not believe me when I type this but Mommy will vouch for me: I really do enjoy watching the fireworks light up the sky!
In general, though, a fireworks festival is not a place for the family pet. It could really scare him or her and even hurt his or her ears.
I have put together some tips to make sure that your 4th of July is happy AND safe for your pet:
- Do NOT leave alcoholic beverages around your pet. Sometimes we get nosy and alcohol can be very dangerous. It can poison us and, if we ingest enough of it, it can even result in death from respiratory failure.
- Do NOT use fireworks or firecrackers around pets. Most of them contain a substance that is toxic to us. Lit fireworks can cause burns.
- Only spray us with sunscreen that is made for pets. We cannot use the same sunscreen as humans!
- Give us lots of exercise earlier in the day! If fireworks make us nervous, we might be less anxious because we are simply exhausted.
- Many dogs run away on the 4th of July because of doors that are left open at parties.
Make sure that there is a plan in place for your pet if you are having a celebration at your home. - Do not place citronella candles at our level. Not only can we get burned by a lit flame but ingestion or inhalation is not safe for us.
- July weather tends to get quite warm and dogs need to stay hydrated. Remember that your dog ALWAYS needs fresh water. Even if you have guests, check your dog’s bowl regularly and refill it as needed.
I hope that everyone has a great holiday. This will be Aunt Molly’s very first 4th of July so I will let you know how she does! What do you have planned for Independence Day?
XO- RH
