Fireworks Safety: Protect Your Pet This Summer!

The Fourth of July may be over, but with Pioneer Day just around the corner and plenty of warm summer days ahead, we know that the fireworks season is still in full swing! We want everyone to have a fun and safe summer, including your beloved pets. Fireworks season can be a stressful time for many pet guardians. By following some simple fireworks safety tips you can help your furry friends stay safe and comfortable while you enjoy your favorite summer celebrations!

Fireworks Safety Tips

Do you love a good fireworks display? We don’t blame you! Fireworks can be a fun way to celebrate. But your pet may not be so keen. Consider leaving your pets at home when you go to marvel at your favorite fireworks show. And if you hear fireworks nearby, it may be time to bring Fido or Mittens inside. Pets can be startled by the crowds and loud noises and may be tempted to flee or accidentally injure themselves. Indoors is the safest place for your pet when the fireworks start.

• Give your pet a comfortable space where they can feel secure. This can be a crate filled with their favorite toys and blankets or an inner room away from doors and windows. Make sure they have access to fresh water, and don’t try to coax them out before they are ready!
• White noise like a fan, air purifier, or soft music may help your pet relax and drown out noise from outside. 
• If your pet has access to a yard during fireworks season, make sure all fencing is secure and double-check that gates are closed at all times. 
• In case of escape, make sure your pet has up-to-date ID tags and microchip information. If your pet does escape, contact your local municipal animal shelter as soon as possible. You can also post on online or social media lost and found pages. 
• Keep your pets away from any leftover fireworks debris as the contents may be harmful.

Make Your Celebrations Fun and Safe!

Summer is a time for fireworks, but also a time for social gatherings. We all love a good picnic in the park with friends or a neighborhood block party. These events are supposed to be fun, and with the right precautions you can make sure they are comfortable and low-stress for your pets.

• Know your pet’s temperament. Fluffy may love socializing with your friends and neighbors at the annual backyard party! But if she doesn’t, there’s no need to force it. Give your pet a comfortable place to hide from the action if they don’t want to interact with your guests. 
• Keep a careful eye on your pet around the food table, and discard scraps promptly. Many foods that we enjoy can be harmful to our pets. Onions, garlic, grapes, certain peanut butter brands, and chocolate can all be very dangerous. For more information, you can read our blog post on Toxic Items. 
• If you bring your pet with you to any social gatherings, talk to the host ahead of time and make sure they will be comfortable and welcome in the space. Ask about any rules, limitations, or other pets who may be attending. When in doubt, it is okay to leave your pet at home and plan something else fun and special just for them! 

We want this summer to be fun and safe for everyone. With a little bit of planning and the right tools, you can make sure your summer celebrations are enjoyable for the whole family – four-legged family members included!