The Fourth of July is just around the corner. This can be a dangerous holiday for Fido, so you’ll want to take steps to keep him safe and healthy, and keep that tail going. Here, a Downey, CA vet discusses keeping your four-legged friend safe on America’s birthday.
Food
Fido will definitely appreciate a special treat. Just be sure to only offer foods that are safe for him. Some things to avoid include garlic, onions, and chives; nuts; pitted fruits; avocados; grapes, currants, and raisins; meat on the bone; chocolate; and anything containing xylitol. What can you give your canine buddy? A plain cheeseburger or hot dog; cooked, boneless meat, chicken, or fish; or a cooked sausage or two are all safe. Store-bought treats are fine as well.
Trash
We recommend using trashcans with secure lids. Fido may get some bright ideas about scoring food from the garbage. This can be quite dangerous, as the trash could contain bones, can lids, skewers, toothpicks, plastic wrap, and other hazardous items.
Chemicals
Keep bug spray, fireworks, lighter fluid, and other chemicals out of paws’ reach. These things are definitely not safe for dogs!
Fireworks
Many dogs are frightened of fireworks. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for lost pet reports to spike after the Fourth. Fido may very well panic and run off if he gets scared! Bring your canine pal indoors before the show starts. If he is scared, put him in a crate or an interior room with bedding, toys, and a treat, and put a TV or radio on to mask the noise.
Heat
July is one of the hottest months of the year. Heat can be very dangerous for dogs! Make sure that Fido always has plenty of water, and access to cool, shady areas. We also recommend limiting his outdoor time during the hottest parts of the day. Walk and play with your furry buddy at night, when it’s cooler out. (Tip: to score some extra tail wags, set out a kiddie pool for your pup to splash around in.)
Parasites
Keep up with Fido’s vaccinations and parasite control. It’s much, much easier to keep your pooch safe from things like rabies and heartworms than it is to treat him for them!
Please contact us, your Downey, CA vet clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!
