Houston SPCA Shares Tips for Keeping Pets Safe and Happy on the Fourth of July
The loud, booming sounds of fireworks on Independence Day can trigger a lot of stress in pets who suffer from anxiety and even cause them to run away and become lost. Houston SPCA’s Dr. Roberta Westbrook wants pet owners to avoid this tragedy with simple reminders.
Check the chip and ID tag for updated information. Now is the perfect time to ensure your pet’s microchip and ID tag information is accurate. Be sure you update your current phone number. The Houston SPCA reunites around 300 pets annually who have a microchip. If your pet gets lost, reach out to online communities like Nextdoor and Facebook, as well as Houston SPCA’s Found Animals Page which includes helpful resources.
It’s Hot! Your pet can’t have enough fresh drinking water and plenty of shade if you’re outdoors for a little while. Also, be sure they cannot access alcohol, sunscreen and citronella candles as they are toxic to pets.
Puppy Dog Eyes at the Grill and Table. Dogs know when they smell something good since they have more than 100 million scent receptors compared to our six million. Foods that cause obstructions like chicken bones and corn on the cob can require surgical removal. Chocolate, avocado and onions can be toxic for pets, so keep an eye on the table.
Pet-Friendly Treats. There are lots of fun treats you can make for your pets to keep them away from your food such as frozen pureed fruit like watermelon or simple baked pumpkin cookies.
Look Before You Pop. Be mindful of your pets when they are running near fire pits, sparklers and fireworks.
Keeping the Celebration at Home? You’ll want to include your pets in the festivities but know your pet’s location. If your pet is nervous, they can slip out the door, gate or a gap in your fence line. Consider putting him or her in a kennel or quiet room until all the guests have arrived. If you plan on watching a fireworks display at an outdoor venue, consider keeping your pet safely inside at home.
Squirrel! Keep pets distracted during the fireworks. The best way to help anxious pets get through a night of fireworks is to distract them. Tire them out with active play or an early morning walk; turn your television or radio on low to help drown out the fireworks and offer special treats or food puzzles to help keep them busy.
Ready to adopt a pet over the long holiday weekend? The Houston SPCA Adoption Center will be open July 4 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. To view adoptable pets online, visit houstonspca.org/available-pets.
Source: Houston SPCA
