Patriotic PuppyA recent study revealed that Montana is one of the most patriotic states in the nation, and we’d have to agree! Year round, we appreciate our freedom – and honor those that defend it – but the Fourth of July really takes the cake (or, apple pie a la mode!).

Independence Day is one that is spent with family, friends, and, of course, our special four-legged friend. However, the celebratory mood can evaporate quickly in the case of a pet emergency. Because summer holiday preventative measures are so important, we offer our 2015 version of Fourth of July pet safety tactics.

A Mellow Night

We understand that you don’t want to leave your pet out of the fun, but large-scale events are really no place for him or her. Previous adventures in public can lead a pet owner to erroneously assume that Fido (Fluffy probably isn’t generally ecstatic about leaving the home turf) will be fine in a crowd. But the Fourth of July is a unique holiday, and the crowds and fireworks can easily  set a pet off in unpredictable ways.

Instead of risking your pet’s f safety and security, skip the Freedom Night Run this year (remember, glow sticks can cause serious damage to your pet’s health). Missing out on the fireworks show later on at Castle Rock Park may disappoint you, but you can watch it repeatedly after someone posts it. Do your pet a favor and leave him or her at home, or, better yet, watch a movie together on your couch.

Fourth of July Pet Safety

It’s truly frightening that more pets go missing on the Fourth of July than any other holiday. Taking these extra Fourth of July pet safety steps may ensure your pet doesn’t become lost:

  • Check his or her collar and tags for wear, tear, and visibility. Update microchip information if changes have occurred to your name, address, and contact information.
  • Take photos of your pet prior to Independence Day so you’ll have an up to date representation of his or her likeness.
  • Exercise your pet earlier in the day. This exertion will wear him or her out, and escape attempts may be minimized. Provide lots of fresh water to mitigate stress-induced dehydration.
  • Invite your pet to remain inside from about midday on. Keeping him or her occupied and away from windows or doors may reduce stress and anxiety.

    • Cookouts and Other Potential Dangers

    A backyard cookout is nearly synonymous with the Fourth of July, and your pet is at risk in the following ways:

  • Keep lighter fluid, matches, skewers, and charcoal away from your pet
  • To reduce burns and smoke inhalation, do not allow him or her to get close to a grill or firepit
  • Although hard to resist, request that other guests do not feed your pet – rich, fatty meat should not be consumed and watch out for any bones
  • Sunblock, insect repellent, and citronella candles are all off-limits to your pet

    • Furthermore, if children are present, supervise interactions closely and remove your pet from the action if overstimulated or tired.

    Star-Spangled and Stress-Free

    Fourth of July pet safety is a huge concern of ours and hope that your aspirations for a low-key, stress-free holiday are fulfilled. We hope you’ll call us with any questions or concerns. Happy Fourth of July!