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Fourth of July Safety Tips for Dogs

July 1, 2014

The Fourth of July can be made even more fun by including your canine companion in the festivities. Feel free to do so, but take heed of these tips from a West Greenwich veterinary professional in order to keep your dog safe this holiday.

Leave Your Dog at Home for the Fireworks

A dog could easily become terrified and overwhelmed with the loud booms and cracks of your local fireworks display, not to mention the crowds of noisy strangers. More pets run away and get lost on the Fourth than on any other holiday, so it’s best to leave your dog safely secured at home to avoid having him become one of the statistics.

Use Caution with Home Fireworks

Planning on setting off fireworks, sparklers, or firecrackers in your driveway or yard? It’s probably best to keep your dog tethered indoors while doing so. The loud noises and lights could scare your dog into running off. What’s more, your dog could get too close, burning his face or paws if there were to be an accident. Home fireworks even contain harmful chemicals like potassium nitrate and arsenic, which will poison your pooch if he somehow swallows it.

Picnic Safety

Keep an eye on your dog during the holiday picnic. Don’t let guests feed him too many fatty table scraps, as it could result in upset stomach or other health problems. In addition, alcoholic beverages, chocolate, sweets, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, avocado, and many more human foods will prove toxic to your pet if he ingests them. Don’t let your dog swipe anything off the table, and call your West Greenwich vet immediately if your dog does swallow any dangerous foods.

Sun Safety

There’s a good chance your dog will be out in the sun for an extended period of time this holiday, especially if you’re including him in an Independence Day picnic. Make sure he has plenty of cool, fresh water, and a shady spot to escape the heat. You might even consider applying doggie sunscreen to his ears and nose to prevent any burns. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.

Please feel free to contact us, your local animal clinic in West Greenwich, RI!

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