The Fourth is just around the corner! America’s birthday can be quite dangerous for our canine pals, so you’ll want to take some precautions to keep Fido safe. A local Tampa, FL veterinarian discusses Fourth of July safety for dogs in this article.
Fireworks
Fireworks can be very scary to Man’s Best Friend. Sadly, lost pet reports often spike just after the Fourth. Even the most loyal and loving pooch is apt to run off if he gets frightened! Bring your pup inside before the fireworks start. If your canine buddy is very anxious, put him in his crate or an interior room with bedding, toys, and treats, and turn a radio on to mask the noise. You can also ask your vet about using pet-calming products, such as treats, collars, or shirts.
Heat
Florida summers can be scorchers! Overheating is a serious concern. If Fido gets too hot, he could develop heat stroke, which can lead to organ failure and can even be deadly. Make sure your furry friend always has plenty of water, and access to rooms cooled by fans or AC. You’ll also want to watch for warning signs, such as panting, drooling, dark urine, and trembling. If you see these symptoms, immediately give Fido water and contact your vet.
Food
Fido will definitely take note when those yummy foods start coming off the grill. It’s fine to offer your pooch a snack, but stick with safe foods. Plain, cooked boneless meat, chicken, or fish is always a good bet. Don’t give your pup anything that contains garlic, onions, or chives; pitted fruit, especially avocado; grapes, currants, or raisins; chocolate; alcohol; meat on the bone, or anything containing xylitol.
Trash
Dogs have been known to check out the trash in the hopes of scoring themselves a yummy snack. This can be dangerous, as garbage often contain things like bones, skewers, tinfoil, can lids, and other hazards. Use cans with secure lids.
Chemicals
Suntan lotion, lighter fluid, torch oil, bug spray, and other chemicals are all hazardous to Fido. Fireworks are also extremely dangerous to our pups. Store these things out of your pet’s reach.
Gates
Watch Fido closely as people are coming or going. It’s much too easy for pups to run out an open gate or door!
Please contact us, your Tampa, FL pet hospital, anytime. We’re happy to help!
