Happy Birthday America
Friday, June 29, 2012
By: Connecticut Humane Society

July 4th pet safety tips.

Spazzy, photo taken by Westport shelter staff.

For many patriotic Americans, July 4th is a fan favorite.  After all, who can resist fun in the sun, a backyard barbeque and a festive fireworks display with family and friends?

For many, family includes our four-legged friends.  Unfortunately, this birthday celebration can easily come to a crashing halt if we don’t do our best to ensure the safety of our pets.  Animal control officers around the country report a 30% increase in lost pets from July 4th – July 6th.  This is directly attributable to noisy fireworks.  Veterinary offices also see an increase in cases of poisoning, respiratory issues, gastrointestinal complaints and more.

So how can we ensure a safe and fun holiday for all?  By keeping the following tips in mind as you enjoy the good cheer that comes with all birthday parties:

• Leave your pet at home.  Crowded fireworks displays can be overwhelming and LOUD.  Keep Skippy inside and in a quiet, escape proof environment.

• Never use fireworks around your pet. Exposure can result in severe burns and trauma.

• Don’t put your alcoholic beverages in pets reach. Pets can become intoxicated or poisoned very easily.

• Use pet safe sunscreen and insect repellant.  Products intended for human use only can poison pets.

• Don’t give your pets the barbeque.  Keep them on their normal diet.  Typical holiday foods like bone-in chicken can be hazardous.

• Keep the “firestarters” out of pets’ reach.  Ingestion of matches and lighter fluid can cause breathing problems, kidney disease, gastrointestinal problems and more.

• Leave the glow “jewelry” off your pets and out of their reach.  The luminescent substance in these articles can cause gastrointestinal problems.

• Put citronella candles and similar insect repellants in a high place.  Ingestions can cause central nervous system depression and inhalations can cause respiratory issues.

Happy July 4th everyone!  From your friends at the Connecticut Humane Society.