FIREWORKS. Keep your pets away from any and all fireworks! These noises can terrify animals and will cause them to runaway; your safest bet is to keep your pets indoors in a secure room. Remember that animals can hear things that we can’t, so be mindful of your animal’s behavior. Make sure that your pets are in a safe enclosed area like a crate or bedroom. Leave a TV or Radio on for them, tune it to a channel or station that is soothing.

HEAT STROKE. Temperatures in July can easily reach over 100 degrees. Provide all animals attending the festivities with access to the same comforts as your human guests. Remember that your pets don’t wear shoes, make sure they stay off pavement and concrete which can reach over 130 degrees. Make sure there is a shaded area and plenty of fresh water available at all times. Adding a few ice cubes to a bowl of water can make drinking more enticing to help pets stay hydrated. 

IDENTIFICATION & COLLAR. Make sure your animal is always wearing an ID tag and secure collar. We highly recommend that you have your pet microchipped. Microchips ensure that if your pet ends up at a shelter or veterinarian’s office they will be able to call and reunite you with your lost animal. Make sure you have a recent photo of your animal’s handy in case they do escape to help identify them. Microchip implants are available at the Humane Society of Ventura County for $15. 

FOOD & DRINKS. Keeping your pet on their normal diet is the safest way to keep them from suffering from any type of food related illness. Dogs left unsupervised can easily get into things that are potentially hazardous such as bones, twine, & toothpicks. Foods such as onions, avocados, grapes, and yeast dough can be very dangerous to your animal’s health. Keep alcoholic drinks away from your pets! 

Applying these safety precautions throughout the long weekend will help ensure that you and pets have a fun and safe holiday!