Keeping Your Pets Safe this Fourth of July

Keeping Your Pets Safe This Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is always an always a fun-filled holiday for humans, but for our furbabies, Fourth of July is one of the scariest days. In fact, it's the most common time of year for pets to run away.

Noises from fireworks, music, and people shouting & cheering can cause your pet stress and anxiety. Loud noises trigger their nervous system and that's what makes them afraid. You need to understand that your pets' hearing is a lot more sensitive than yours, and your pet is not used to these unfamiliar noises. Your pet doesn't know where the noises are coming from and why they happen, and they may try to run away, panic, or hide.  

In this article, we cover Fourth of July pet safety to make this holiday a little less stressful for both you and your furbaby.

Secure and Update IDs

According to the American Kennel Club, July 4th and 5th are days when pets go missing the most. The most important thing you can do is make sure your pet has no way to escape or run away from your house.

Sometimes things don't go as planned, and if it ever boils down to an escape or loss, make sure your furbaby has an updated identification tag or collar.

"Make sure to update all identification tags, collars and microchips so anyone can contact you if they rescue your pet."

It is also beneficial to have your dog microchipped so someone can contact you if they find your pet. Microchips increase the chances of getting reunited with your lost pets. Unlike collars and tags that can fall off or be removed, microchips are permanent. 

Give Your Pet a Safe Space

It's no secret that many dogs scared of fireworks will try to hide. If your pet chooses to hide in a particular area in your house, let them stay there unbothered, even if it is a place they wouldn't normally have access to, like a basement or bedroom.

You can also prepare a safe space ahead of time. Do your best to make sure this area is away from the noises, foot traffic, and other possible stress triggers like strangers, kids and loud noises. 

To make your furbaby feel more comfortable, and to encourage them to use their safe place, add Pawtect® Blankets in their safe spot. These blankets can act as comfort blankets for your furbaby, providing them with security while the celebration goes on in your home. Dogs tend to drool or have accidents when anxious, so this waterproof pet blanket will help to protect your home. 

Additionally, it has been reported by Wag Walking that because of stress and anxiety, pets turn their blankets into chew toys. Pawtect® Blankets have a LockJaw® binding feature to help prevent fraying, loose ends and dissuade chewers. 

Cats are also known to be easily stressed out. If your cat is scared of firework, the flashing lights, or guests in your home, you should provide a comfortable area for them. Add their favorite blankets to create a cozy spot for them as well. 

Provide Calming Supplements for Dogs

Fireworks can be terrifying to our furbabies. They create loud, unfamiliar noises which can trigger your pet's nervous system, signaling them to become afraid. Calming supplements will help them feel relaxed and a little bit less stressed on one of the most terrifying days of the year.

"Providing calming supplements will help your furbaby feel relaxed on one of the most terrifying days of the year for them."

Calming SoftSupps® are made with a branded 'Super Ingredient' Suntheanine® and taurine to help support balanced behavior and promote a sense of relaxation. These calming soft chew supplements also have organic hemp to help promote calming effects, and help your dog cope with external stressors.

These supplements work to balance behavior and stress over time. They are not a one-day fix for anxiety, so it is best to incorporate Calming SoftSupps® into your dog's diet a few weeks before, since they are safe for every day use.

If you are in need of a quick fix for dog anxiety, Benadryl can help calm your dog for a night. For cats, talk to your vet about trusted calming supplements they can recommend or medications that might help relax your anxious cat. 

Keep Distractions Close

If ever you find your pet going through an extremely stressful time, this is where you must keep distractions on hand. Giving your pet their favorite chew toy or their favorite treat can often serve as a distraction from all the noises and stressors.

Consider giving your dog Gnawtlers®. These premium antler chews are safe for your furbaby. Gnawtlers® do not splinter so easily, are filled with beneficial nutrients, and can keep your dog physically & mentally stimulated. Gnawing will help your dog release pent-up energy and stress. Chewing can help wear your dog out and keep them mentally stimulated.

You can also provide extra enrichment activities, like snuffle mats. Snuffle mats for dogs and cats, like the Forager® Mat or the Forager® Bowl, allow your furbaby to use their senses for food or treats.

Forager® Mats and Bowls are made of non-abrasive SoftSnout® material that is comfortable on all pet noses. Not only does Forager® keep your furbaby distracted, but it will also help burn their energy and tire them out. Since dogs should not be off leash or left in the yard during the Fourth of July, this is a great alternative to provide some mental exercise.

Keep Your Pets Indoors

Pets should not be outside during any Fourth of July festivities. It can create a dangerous situation, or they can become frightened and run away. Especially in the darkness, this is a recipe for trouble.

It's best not to allow your pets outside without a leash due to the potential for running away. Even with a fenced yard or well-trained dog, there is a much higher risk than usual if your furbaby is scared. You can still take your dog outside to potty, of course, but you should not leave unsupervised or off-leash. 

When going outside, keep an eye out for fearful behaviors in your furbaby. This may include trembling, hiding, frequent peeing, or not wanting to go potty. If you encounter any potty troubles, you may want to use a washable dog diaper, belly band, or cat diapers for a mess-free and stress-free holiday! Diapers can prevent accidents from turning into messes.

Other helpful tips for a safe Fourth of July celebration:

Wishing you and your pets a safe and fun Fourth of July from the Pack at Pet Parents®!