Dr. Ruth, "The Pet Vet" shares barbeque and
firework safety tips for pets.
SAN
DIEGO, July 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The
4th of July is almost here. While we look forward to the
parties, BBQ's, and fireworks, many of our pets dread this time of
year. Fireworks, with their bright flashes and loud booms, frighten
many pets. Sadly, many scared pets escape and get lost during the
festivities, while others consume harmful foods at parties and
BBQs. Dr. Ruth, "The Pet Vet" shares some simple ways to ensure are
pets stay safe and stress-free this holiday.
![Happy 4th! Happy 4th!](https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2451538/Dr_Ruth_MacPete____The_Pet_Vet.jpg)
- Keep your pets indoors
Though most of us consider fireworks to be the highlight of the
evening, many pets are terrified of them. The bright lights and
loud noises can unnerve pets and frightened animals will often
escape to get away. Runaway pets can become lost or get hit by a
car. To keep your pet safe and stress-free during a fireworks
display, be sure to keep them indoors, preferably in a secure and
comfortable room.
- Keep your pets distracted
Give your pet their favorite toy or a new chew toy to keep them
focused on something beside the loud noises and bright lights. Turn
on the TV or radio to help drown out the loud and scary noises
outside.
- Utilize calming products
Calming products can help keep your pet stress-free during the
celebration. Pheromones have been shown to decrease stress and
anxiety in dogs and cats. ThunderEase products use calming
pheromones to help pets feel comfortable and are available as
plug-in diffusers, sprays, and even collars. Another great product
is ThunderShirt, which works by wrapping snugly around your
pet to decrease anxiety with soothing pressure, like a swaddle for
a baby.
- Speak with your veterinarian about medications
If you have a pet that becomes very stressed or agitated by
fireworks despite your best efforts, speak with your veterinarian
about medications to help decrease anxiety and keep your pet
relaxed. Your veterinarian will determine which medication is best
for your pet.
- Watch out for food that can be harmful to pets
The 4th of July is known for apple pie and BBQ's. Unfortunately,
many of the foods we love can be harmful for our pets. Everyone
knows to avoid chocolate and alcohol, but did you know bones are
dangerous too? Poultry bones can splinter and get lodged in the
gastrointestinal tract. Ham and beef bones can break teeth or cause
intestinal obstructions. Likewise, do not share table scraps. It
not only encourages begging but also can lead to obesity and
pancreatitis, a dangerous condition if left untreated. Finally, it
goes without saying to keep your pets away from hot grills. Your
pet may get burned if they find the smell of grilled meat too
tempting to resist.
- Be sure all pets have ID tags and microchips
All of your pets should have collars with ID tags and microchips,
even indoor-only cats. A door or gate could be left open
accidentally during the 4th of July celebration, or your pet can
escape if they become frightened during a fireworks display.
Collars with ID tags and microchips are the best way to ensure that
if your pet gets lost, he or she will be returned to you. And of
course, make sure that all your information is correct and up to
date.
Conclusion
The 4th should be a time of
celebration for all. Be sure to follow these tips so that you and
your pets can have a safe and fun 4th of July!
For more about pet health or some pet-friendly ideas go
to: https://drruthpetvet.com/
Facebook @DrRuthMacPete
Instagram @drruthmacpete
About Dr. Ruth MacPete, aka Dr. Ruth "The Pet Vet"
Dr. Ruth MacPete is a veterinarian, media correspondent, and
author. She has appeared on The Doctors, The Today Show, Good
Morning America, Fox & Friends, The Weather Channel, as
well as numerous news shows around the country. She has written
about pets and pet health for various magazines and published the
award-winning children's book Lisette the Vet. To learn more
about Dr. MacPete go to: www.DrRuthPetVet.com.
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SOURCE Dr. Ruth MacPete -- The Pet Vet