Fourth Of July Safety For Dogs

The 4th is just around the corner! Remember to keep your dog’s health and safety in mind as you make plans. This can be a dangerous holiday for Fido! Here, an Oconomowoc, WI vet discusses keeping Fido safe through the summer holiday.

The 4th is often a scorcher. Make sure Fido always has shade and water. If you know or suspect your furry friend is getting hot, immediately give him water and get him out of the sun.

Many of the things you may find at a barbeque are toxic to dogs. Don’t let Fido have anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; nuts, especially macadamia nuts; pitted fruit, especially avocado; chocolate; caffeine; alcohol; grapes, currants, and raisins; or xylitol. Meat on the bone is also unsafe, as are raw meat, dough, and yeast and anything fattening or fried.

Fido has been known to go through the trash in search of leftovers. This can be dangerous, as the trash may contain bones, skewers, can lids, tin foil, fat trimmings, and other hazards. As soon as everyone has finished eating, clear the tables and store leftovers. Use a garbage can with secure lids.

Keep Fido away from the grill! He could get his leash wrapped around it, which would be very dangerous. You also don’t want him to snap up something that’s fallen to the ground.

Many of the chemicals you find at a barbeque are toxic to dogs. This list includes lighter fluid, sunscreen, citronella, torch oil, and bug spray, among others. Keep these things out of paws’ reach!

Protect Fido from parasites and diseases by staying current on his parasite control and vaccinations. Ask your vet for more information.

Lost pet reports often spike after the 4th. Make sure Fido is microchipped and wearing ID tags, just in case.

Many dogs are absolutely terrified of fireworks. Play it safe, and bring Fido indoors before the show starts. Put him in a quiet back room with food, toys, treats, and comfy bedding, and turn a TV or radio on to mask the noise. If you have a yard, make sure your fence latches securely. We also recommend limiting your dog’s outdoor time for a few days around the holiday.

Happy 4th! Please contact us, your Oconomowoc, WI vet clinic, anytime. We’re here for you!