The most prevalent hazard of fireworks to pets is the loud noise, which causes fear and anxiety. Your pet may shake, drool, pant or even try to run away. Fourth of July is a time of the year when shelters report 30% more missing pets. Your pet can get lost, injured, or even killed by a car when they are running scared. Firework can also cause direct injury like burns or cuts if they walk on the debris. Not to mention curious pups may mistake spent fireworks for toys and ingest pieces. Fireworks contain several hazardous chemicals such as potassium nitrate, arsenic, and other heavy metals that can cause severe stomach upset, poisoning, or even death if ingested. Ingestion of any firecracker should be taken seriously and your pet should be seen by an emergency veterinarian. Lastly, smoke and particulate matter from fireworks can worsen respiratory issues, especially in pets with asthma or bronchitis.
Here are some Fireworks safety tips for You
1. Keep Pets Inside
You may think your dog or cat would enjoy a night out with the family to have fun watching some sparkling fireworks but keep in mind that your pet does not understand what you’re celebrating or why. If your pet gets upset by loud noises, like sirens, or gets anxious, then skip the trip and let them stay home, especially if your pet doesn’t like strangers or large crowds. Social anxiety is prevalent in cats and dogs, especially those who were not properly socialized early in life.
Make sure the gates are lateched, doors closed and window screens secured.
2. Create a Cozy Place
Before you head out for the holiday, make sure you have a quiet retreat away from windows for your pet that they can escape to. For cats, consider a cat cave, tent or even a cardboard box covered with a towel sprayed with FELIWAY for them to hide. Some dogs may prefer their crate but make sure to put in one of their favorite toys, a few treats or a peanut-butter stuffed kong and a fuzzy blanket sprayed with ADAPTIL.
3. Calming Supplements and Anxiety Meds
While some pets don’t mind the noise, others need a little help to settle down. At The Vet On Main we offer several supplements that can ease your pet’s anxiety. PET RELEAF Stress Releaf Oil and Treats, Standard Process Calming Comfort Pro Powder and VetriScience Calm and Confident are our Top 3 Picks. Stop By Today! And we know that those may not be enough for some pets and they will need prescription anxiety medication. Please give us a call as we are happy to help your pet.
4. Thundershirts, Earmuffs and Happy Hoodies
A “ThunderShirt” is a specially designed velcro vest that applies gentle, constant pressure to a pet’s torso, like swaddling a baby that creates a calming effect. These can help reduce anxiety in dogs and cats during stressful situations like thunderstorms, travel, and, yes, fireworks. Canine earmuffs are noise-reducing muffs that fit snugly on your dog’s head to reduce the noise from the fireworks. Or try a Happy Hoodie to cover their ears that helps reduce stress in cats and dogs. These are meant to help reduce stress but some pets may panic with them so make sure they are not agitated.
5. Microchip Your Pet and Make sure tags are up to date
Ensuring pets are microchipped with a permanent ID is the best way to ensure if lost, they get returned to you. Home Again Microchips are The Vet On Main’s preferred manufacturer as the provide the best support and also read your pet’s temperature with a simple scan. Yearly Membership also allows you 24/7 phone access to medical support. Visit https://www.homeagain.com/ for more information.
Also make sure your current cell phone number is on your pet’s tags and update your pet’s profile with your correct address. But remember collars and tags can come off, so chip your pet today!
In addition to taking all of the necessary precautions, be sure to sign up for pet health insurance for peace of mind throughout all future holidays and festivities to come. Trupanion is the only company that actually pays your veterinarian directly and does not limit payouts.
HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY!
