Summer is officially here, and with it comes the biggest holiday of the season! With Independence Day right around the corner, it’s important to review pet safety in advance of the festivities. Whether you’re road tripping with the family and your furry friends, or staying put and hunkering down, keep your pets safe this Fourth of July with these simple tips.
Keep Your Pets Safe this Fourth of July
- Take Your Evening Walk Early – first things first, check what time the fireworks festivities begin in your locale, then time your final walks of the day accordingly. Most firework displays take place between 9-10pm, so be sure to walk your furry friends at least an hour before they begin. Keep in mind that rogue fireworks could go on well into the night and throughout the week leading up to the Fourth of July and after the holiday, so be mindful for a few days before and after the main event.
- Keep Them Safe Inside – it goes without saying that your pet or pets should stay safe inside your home before the fireworks begin. This is to alleviate any additional anxiety that they may already be feeling and will help you know that they are safe and cannot get out. Sadly, many pets are lost each year due to being scared by fireworks and running off.
- Create a Safe Space at Home – even if your dog or cat (or other animal!) is desensitized to the sound of fireworks, it is always a good idea to create a safe space at home for them to retreat to and relax if they start feeling tense because of the vibrations around them. Think lots of your pet’s favorite pillows, blankets, and stuffed toys, as well as any chew toys and enrichment puzzles to keep them preoccupied.
- Medication – for those with more worrisome pets, consider consulting your veterinarian early to see if anti-anxiety medication or calming medication or supplements are right for your pet’s specific needs. Plan to do this well in advance so you have time to source the prescription.
- Sound Machines – just like babies, animals benefit from calming sounds as well. Consider using a sound machine in your pet’s safe space (Pro Tip: use a dedicated room or crate, and make that your pet’s safe space, as the entire home should already technically be a safe haven, but it is nice for your pet to know they can retire to their own safe space within the home)
- Use Bribery – treats, peanut butter filled Kongs, and pup cups can be a great distraction for your dogs. For cats, catnip, bouncers, and other toys can be used as a great way to help relieve the anxiety during fireworks.
- Gentle Touch – last but certainly not least, petting your animal using gentle strokes and using a calm voice can relieve a lot of anxiety during stressful times. Consider brushing your animal, giving belly rubs, or simply cuddling and stroking them softly. If your dog or cat is severely affected by fireworks, consider a ThunderShirt for their safety and your peace of mind.
In conclusion, traveling with pets is a common place practice so why not use these practical tips to keep your pets safe this Fourth of July and on any future road trips? What are some of your favorite ways to keep your pets calm during fireworks? Leave a comment below!
About Life Industries Corporation
Founded by Mr. Edwin Kehrt on Long Island, New York in 1959, Life Industries Corporation formulates, compounds, labels, packages, and ships various chemical compounds. Parent company to BoatLIFE, RVbyLIFE, and AeroLIFE Industries, the organization relocated to its present home in North Charleston, South Carolina in 1995. Grace L. Schmidt, Mr. Kehrt’s daughter, has been president since 1987. Last year marked the company’s 65th anniversary.