8 Fourth of July Safety Tips for Your Pets

As you prep the grill, hang up those patriotic decorations, and plan where to watch the fireworks, make sure you’re furry one is prepared to have an enjoyable and safe Fourth!

Pet Safety Tips 4th of July - Persian cat wearing tiny sparkly red hat with white star

Table scraps and alcoholic drinks can be harmful to your pets.

Skip the Table Scraps: Human food is never great for your pets, but did you know that some table scraps can actually be harmful? Some cooked bones, onions, avocado, grapes and raisins are just a few foods that can be toxic to your pets. Stick with their normal food at a normal time!
Leave the Pets at Home and Indoors: Keep your pets safe on the 4th of July by avoiding outdoor firework shows and hot cars by all means!
Keep Alcoholic Drinks Out of Reach: Alcoholic drinks can be toxic to your pet. Potential side effects can include: intoxication, weakness, depression, and even coma. Respiratory failure can even occur in severe cases.
Do Not Apply Sunscreen or Insect Repellant Products on Your Pet: Unless it’s specifically made for pets, please know that these substances can be harmful to your pet!
Walk Dogs Prior to Nightfall: Before the fireworks start, and when it’s still quiet, take your pups for a walk. If you can tire them out, there’s a chance they’ll sleep better through the local fireworks show!
Decorate with Care: Watch where you put festive red, white, and blue decorations – make sure they’re out of your pet’s reach. Besides being potential choking hazards, animals can easily get tangled in streamers and ribbons, and those fun glow sticks can actually be toxic to pets.
Watch where you put festive decorations, as they can be potential choking hazards.

Keep Fireworks Away from Pets: Whether you’re just storing them or you’re setting them off, keep ALL fireworks away from your pets. They can cause severe burns, trauma, and are potentially toxic to your furry friends. (Also, be sure to check fire bans around your area if you are setting off your own fireworks!)
ID Your Pets: Many frightened pets will run away during firework shows. To keep your pets safe on the 4th of July, make sure your pets are microchipped and/or are wearing their tags, so they can find their way home if they decide to bolt.