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Arizona Pet Vet wishes you and your four-legged friends a happy and safe 4th of July.

Jul 1, 2012 | Holidays

As a nation we celebrate our Independence Day. Fun filled gatherings with barbecue foods, decorations and party favors, music, and fireworks…the very things that may frighten our pets or put them in danger. The Humane Society reports the 4th of July as the busiest time of the year for veterinarians and pet shelters.  There are a few things we can do to protect our canine and feline friends.

When you think of the family barbecues you may envision hot dogs, hamburgers, and cool beverages. If you bring your pet to the festivities, there are a few things to keep in mind to keep them safe. Be careful not to leave alcoholic beverages where your pets have access to them. Also, don’t change your pet’s diet by feeding them scraps or leaving food where they can reach it; your pet’s stomach may not be able to handle it. The bottle caps, plastic wrappings and containers and whole foods are examples of the things you pet could choke on.  The food and drinks you are enjoying could cause them digestive problems, could be choking hazards, or could poison your pet.

What party is complete without party favors and decorations? Well, maybe the party that our pets are guest to. Your pet could get caught up in the steamers used to decorate the walls and tables. The glow sticks and glow jewelry contain toxic chemicals and the toxins, as well as the plastics, could harm your pet if they mistake them for a toy.

Last, but not least, the fireworks display  may frighten or harm your pet. Be sure your pet is wearing some kind of identification since loud noises from the fireworks may cause your pet to run away. Pets should never be in the area where fireworks are being lit, they could suffer burns or be harmed if they ingest matches or materials from the fireworks. Therefore, the best place for your pet to be is indoors when fireworks are being fired off.  If your pet is a “scaredy cat” you may want to seek the help from your veterinarian who can provide tranquilizers to help calm your pet. Provide them a safe retreat where they are not affected by the fireworks.

Arizona Pet Vet wishes you and your four-legged friends a happy and safe 4th of July.

Disclaimer: Not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. If you think your pet has a medical emergency, call or visit your veterinarian or your local veterinary emergency hospital immediately.