July Fourth sure is a lot of fun, but it’s also one of the more hazardous days of the year for our animal companions! Here, your Savannah, GA veterinarian from Westside Animal Hospital gives you a few tips for keeping your pet safe this holiday.

Leave Pet Home for the Fireworks

More pets get lost or run away on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year—that’s because the deafening booms and brilliant flashes of fireworks tend to terrify our pets rather than entertain them! Don’t bring your pet to the local fireworks display. Instead, leave them at home in an escape-proof room, where they’ll be safe.

Use Pyrotechnics at Home Carefully

Lighting off firecrackers or sparklers in your driveway to celebrate the nation’s birthday? Keep in mind that these pyrotechnics, while smaller than public-display fireworks, can still startle pets into darting off. They can also accidentally burn a pet who gets too close. It’s best to keep your pet indoors when lighting off fireworks at home.

Protect Against Pests

It’s a good bet your pet will be spending some time outdoors on Independence Day. Remember to make sure they wear quality pest preventatives to avoid the dangers posed by fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and parasitic worms like heartworm and roundworm. If your pet needs these preventative measures, contact your vet’s office for help.

Combat the Heat and Sun

Another outdoor hazard this holiday is the sweltering sun and oppressive heat. Allow your pet back indoors to enjoy the air conditioning every now and again; if they spend too long in the heat and humidity, deadly dehydration and heatstroke may occur. Also make sure to provide your animal friend with a large bowl of cool, fresh water to drink from at all times, whether they spend time indoors or out.

Picnic and Party Hazards

Plenty of common picnic and party foods—onions, chives, shallots, garlic, grapes and raisins, avocado, certain nuts, chocolate, candy, gum, salty foods, fatty foods, caffeinated foods and beverages, and much more—are toxic to pets. Don’t let your pet anywhere near the food table. Also beware of alcohol, as it can poison pets quite easily. Never leave wine, liquor, beer, or champagne drinks within reach of your animal companion. Would you like even more great tips for keeping your pet safe on July Fourth? Contact Westside Animal Hospital in Savannah, GA today.