Ah, July 4th — it’s all fun and fireworks for us humans. But those of us at PetWellClinic® in Knoxville and Alcoa know that for many of our furry friends this holiday is one big serving of fear and chaos.
The loud noises and bright lights can cause even typically calm pets to panic. Some tremble or hide, while others even run away—which isn’t the type of independence we’re intending to celebrate. There’s a reason animal shelters all over the country experience a marked increase in lost pets during this holiday.
In addition, because this year’s holiday lands on a Monday it creates a perfect long-weekend scenario, so consider that there’s a good chance that fireworks may be set off in neighborhoods near you Saturday and Sunday evenings as well. However, by keeping just a few tips in mind, it’s possible to keep our pets safe and sane during this Fourth of July holiday.
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Keep your pets inside.
As tempting as it may be to have your dog join you outside for the festivities, it’s just not worth the risk. Some dogs have been known to think a tossed firecracker is an invitation to play fetch, or that even sparklers are something to nip. And even if your dog is trained to stay by your side, the unexpected loud booms and flashes in the sky might make him bolt. Add the typical large crowd factor to this mix, and your pet’s anxiety level is prone to soar.
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Provide distractions.
Turn on the radio or TV to help drown out some of the outside noise, and make sure your pets have access to their favorite comfort zones. Some cats and dogs like to hide under a bed, while others feel safe in a crate with a soft blanket and chew toy.
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Know your pet & prepare ahead of time.
If you plan to be away from home during the holiday weekend, make sure your pet’s caretakers know what steps to take to make sure your dog or cat will be in a safe, escape-proof room. If you already know your pet is prone to separation anxiety, you can also talk to your vet about medications that may help lessen their stress while the frightening noises occur in your absence.
The Fourth of July is also a good opportunity to make sure your pet’s collar and microchip information is up to date. If by chance your pet does run off or get separated from you, your best bet for a happy reunion is through quick and correct identification from a microchip or a tag.
By operating convenient hours for non-surgical care, PetWellClinic® is able to offer substantially discounted prices for preventative products, vaccinations, wellness exams, and treatment of minor conditions. Think of us as a “minute clinic” for your pet—no appointment necessary, with quick in and out service. You can save even more time by pre-registering and pre-paying online for our walk-in clinics.
PetWellClinic® has three locations: 10549 Kingston Pike, Knoxville; 7329 Kingston Pike, Knoxville; and 228 S. Calderwood Street in Alcoa. Learn more about how PetWellClinic® can exceed your expectations for affordable, top quality pet care by visiting our website at www.petwellclinic.com.