NuVet Labs is happy to re-post this article to remind puppy parents how to keep Fido safe this 4th of July.
It’s the 4th of July holiday – friends, family and festivities are on their way. Fireworks, swimming pools and tasty food hot off the grill are probably in the forefront of most minds during this fun time. Unfortunately, it can be easy to lose track of our canine family during such a flurry of activity. Here’s some common 4th of July activities that could potentially be harmful to our four-legged friends. Keep reading to learn more on how you can keep Fido safe this holiday weekend.
Make sure your dog’s information is up-to-date
Holiday weekends aside, it is always smart to make sure your dog’s information is current, which includes what is written on your dog’s tag or the information embedded in a microchip. During the holidays, many of us go out of town or spend the weekend with friends, which makes it even more important that your dog’s info is up-to-date just in case Fido decides to explore or manages to get away from you.
Keep Fido Safe by keeping alcohol away
Simply put, alcohol is poisonous to dogs. If your dog manages to consume alcohol it can cause detrimental health problems. A dog that has consumed alcohol will show symptoms. These symptoms include problems walking, standing, and breathing. Frequent urination and drowsiness are also signs of alcohol consumption in dogs. Make sure to clean up spills right away and move the alcohol so it is out of reach for your pet, which includes alcohol that may be used for cooking.
Keep your pet away from a hot grill, charcoal, matches and lighter fluid
Just like you would with small children, it is important to keep your pup away from a hot grill as well as charcoal, matches and lighter fluid. A hot grill has the potential to burn your pup and charcoal, matches and lighter fluid can be poisonous to your canine companion if ingested. Keeping your pup on a leash or secure inside is the best way to prevent grilling accidents.
Make sure your dog can’t get at human food
One of the best things about the 4th of July is all of the fun food available. Most dog parents know all too well, dogs adore food, which is why it is important to make sure your dog cannot reach any tasty holiday food. Refreshing summer treats like grapes can be very harmful to dogs. Onions being added to burgers and hotdogs can also cause your dog intestinal distress and could require an emergency trip to your veterinarian – so keep an eye out.
Keeping your dog safe and healthy is always a dog owners main priority. A good place to start is making your 4th of July festivities as dog friendly and safe as possible. For more safety tips, check out Part 2 of How to Keep Fido Safe During the 4th Of July!
