With the July 4th right around the corner, we want everyone to be able to enjoy the holiday with their family; including their furry friends.  More dogs run away on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year.  The noise from fireworks, smells from cookouts, and large groups of people at parties and parades can overwhelm your pet’s senses.  We have a few tips on how to help make this holiday a more enjoyable celebration for everyone.

1. If you’re going to a fireworks display leave your pet at home.  Keeping your pet indoors at home in their comfortable environment helps prevent the stresses that can trigger their flight instinct.  If you’re worried that they may still feel stress indoors you can try leaving them in a crate or small room (such as a bathroom).  Giving your dog a nice long walk or playtime before you leave can help tire them out as well.  Pets that are prone to environmental stressors can try Rescue® Remedy (a supplement found at most health food stores) to keep them calm.  A dropper full on the tongue can work wonders.
2. Always have your pet properly identified.  Having your pet’s id tags up to date and secured to a well-fitting collar is crucial in the case that your pet manages to escape from you.  Keep dogs leashed and held close to you at all times. A microchip is the perfect permanent identification in case your pet goes missing. HomeAgain microchips are available at our office.
3. While people love to grill it can be dangerous for your pet.  Make sure to keep lighter fluid and matches away while cooking.  Many popular cook out foods can be very harmful to your pet, such as: alcohol, chocolate, onions, coffee, grapes, and raisins.  Any change to your pet’s diet, even for one meal, can cause GI upset and diarrhea.
4. Mosquitos are never fun for any party.  However, candles, insect coils and other citronella-based products contain toxins that can cause your pet respiratory distress.  Try mixing a small amount of Avon Skin So Soft© and water in a spray bottle and using it on your pet (or you!) for a more natural bug repellant.
5. Everyone loves fun glow-in-the-dark jewelry but make sure to keep it away from your pets.  While the liquid is not highly toxic, it can still cause GI upset and swallowing ANY party favors can result in intestinal blockage.

We hope that everyone has a great Fourth of July and can celebrate knowing that their four-legged friends are safe and comfortable at home!

Just as a reminder we will be open normal hours, 8:30am-6pm on Wednesday July 3^rd and Friday July 5^th.  We will be closed on Thursday for the holiday.