{"id":1962,"date":"2017-06-30T13:47:59","date_gmt":"2017-06-30T13:47:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.petwellclinic.com\/wp\/?p=1962"},"modified":"2017-06-30T17:05:35","modified_gmt":"2017-06-30T17:05:35","slug":"4th-july-no-picnic-pets-7-tips-keep-safe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.petwellclinic.com\/wp\/2017\/06\/30\/4th-july-no-picnic-pets-7-tips-keep-safe\/","title":{"rendered":"Why 4th of July Is No Picnic For Pets\u2014And 7 Tips To Keep Them Safe"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/b>With the 4th of July falling early in the week on a Tuesday this year, it\u2019s a good bet that the weekend will be an extension of the celebrations. Even though fireworks are illegal in Knox and Blount counties, it\u2019s not uncommon to see hear and see fireworks around neighborhoods well before the official festivities on the 4th. The long holiday weekend may be all flash and fun for us humans, but it\u2019s terrifying and potentially dangerous for many of our pets. <\/span><\/p>\n

The 4th of July leads to a big spike in missing pets, who panic and escape during the loud noises and flashes. It\u2019s also a cause for many vet visits after pets accidentally ingest or are burned by curiously trying to sniff or paw at lit fireworks. Here are the 3 major risks to our pets this holiday, followed by 7 tips on how to keep your pets safe and sound:<\/span><\/p>\n

Noise & Flashing Lights<\/b><\/p>\n

The loud noises and bright lights can create anxiety in even typically calm pets. Some tremble or hide, while others run away\u2014which isn\u2019t the type of independence we want to celebrate. There\u2019s a reason animal shelters all around the country experience a marked increase in lost pets during this holiday. <\/span><\/p>\n

If your pet\u2019s tags aren\u2019t up to date or if she isn\u2019t microchipped, now is a good time to make sure she has those tracking devices. You\u2019ll also want to make sure all of your pet\u2019s vaccinations, including rabies, are up to date should he get lost, taken to a shelter, or picked up by animal control. <\/span><\/p>\n

Poisoning<\/b><\/p>\n

Fireworks contain hazardous chemicals such as heavy metals, sulfur, potassium nitrate, and coloring agents which can be poisonous if ingested by pets, either before or after the fireworks are lit. Many fireworks also contain dense cardboard, which can result in intestinal blockages.<\/span><\/p>\n

Injury<\/b><\/p>\n

Some dogs have been known to think a tossed firecracker is an invitation to play fetch, or that even sparklers are something to paw at and nip. Lit fireworks can cause burns to the face, lips, inside of the mouth, nose, eyelids\/eyes or paws. <\/span><\/p>\n

So, given the emotional and potentially physical hazards of 4th of July for our pets, what\u2019s the best way to keep them safe?<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Keep your pets inside<\/b><\/p>\n

As tempting as it may be to have your dog, especially, join you outside for the festivities, it\u2019s just not worth the risk. 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 chaos of a crowd to the mix, and your pet\u2019s anxiety level is likely to skyrocket.<\/span><\/p>\n