Life

How To Keep Pets Safe On The 4th Of July

by Olivia Youngs

Time with family, good food, spectacular fireworks, and all the red, white and blue — these are a few of the things Americans look forward to every year on the 4th of July. But the 4th of July isn't fun and games for everyone. It turns out, the holidays poses a major threat and fear for the furry members of your family. That's why knowing how to keep pets safe on the 4th of July is of the utmost importance.

You might be more concerned with your baby or toddler on this overly loud holidays, but you have to keep your pet in mind too. According to Pet Amber Alert, more pets go missing on the 4th of July than any other day of the year. Due to distracted owners, unfamiliar settings, and, of course, loud fireworks, many pets — primarily dogs — run away without their owner noticing until it's too late to find them.

There are, however, ways to keep your four-legged friends safe on Independence Day that only require a little extra preparation and vigilance on your part. After all, you don't want to spend your celebration worrying about your pets. Making sure they're safe before the festivities begin will help you and them party in peace.

1

Add Your Pet To The Nextdoor Pet Directory

In the case that something happened, you'll be glad you added them to the Nextdoor Pet Directory. Nextdoor is a private neighborhood directory that allows people to connect with their neighbors. The free app also has a feature where people can add their pet photos and identifying details to make finding their animals less of a hassle should they go missing.

2

Leave Them At Home For The Fireworks

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) suggested that pet owners simply leave their animals at home on the 4th of July. As tempting as it may be to let them partake in the festivities, bringing them along opens the door for them to get frightened or misplaced.

3

Be Sure They're Wearing Collars And IDs

If you do decide to bring your pooch along, Pet MD emphasized that you make sure that they're properly IDed with their collar and ID tags.

4

Try The ThunderShirt

As strange as it sounds, the ThunderShirt ($40) is a proven product to reduce pet anxiety. The shirt adds gentle pressure to their abdomen, allowing them to feel secure and less anxious. You can use the ThunderShirt if you take your dog out and about, or even at home if they're scared of the fireworks.

5

Keep Them Distracted During The Show

Most dogs are anxious about fireworks. However, the aforementioned PETA piece suggested that simply letting your dog play and showing them extra affection while the fireworks are going off (in the comfort of your own home, of course) can help them realize that there's nothing to worry about.

6

Keep Them Away From All Other Harmful Substances Or Drinks

Although not exactly pertaining to fireworks, the aforementioned Pet MD piece noted that it's common for dogs to consume alcoholic beverages or unsafe foods. Your pet can get severely sick from alcohol poisoning, so keep them away from anything that isn't designed specifically for them.