Keeping cool and staying safe during the Fourth of July is not only important for humans, but for our furry companions as well. That’s why the Townlaker has put together a list of safety tips to remember while you and your family are out celebrating the Fourth of July this week.
- Keep citronella candles, insect coils and oil products out of reach. They could irritate your pets’ stomach and possibly even decrease their central nervous system. If inhaled, the oils could cause aspiration pneumonia in pets.
- Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date, especially since dogs tend to stay outdoors longer and come into contact with other animals more during the summer months.
- The same goes for microchipping. The loud noises from the fireworks could frighten your pets and they might run away.
- Watch out for yard fertilizers and deadly plants. Plant food, fertilizer and insecticides can be fatal for animals if ingested.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to hot asphalt. Take walks in the early mornings or evenings, when the sun’s heat is less intense. You wouldn’t walk on hot pavement in bare feet, either!
- Never leave your dog in a closed vehicle on a hot day. The temperature inside a car can rise to over 100 degrees in a matter of minutes.
- Learn the signs of heatstroke in dogs and be sure to watch out for warning signs. A list can be found here.
- While it might sound like a good idea to bring your dog to a fireworks display, loud crowds aren’t much fun for most pets. As a matter of fact, more dogs run away on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year. Instead, keep your pup safe from the noise in a quiet, sheltered and escape-proof area.
What are some other tips we’ve missed? Share with us if you know any other helpful hints on making sure your July Fourth celebration is fun for your entire family.
Photo courtesy of Flickr.
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