Pet-Friendly Fourth of July Tips

Happy Independence Day from Hatton Pet Portrait Studio! We’re excited for fireworks, barbeques and family fun. Are you planning to include your furry family members in the festivities? With fireworks and a lot of commotion, it’s not surprise that the Fourth of July is one of the most active times for the recovery of pets. To keep your dogs safe while having fun this Fourth, here are some pet-friendly tips from the American Kennel Club.

Keep Your Dog at Home

Make your dog comfortable at home while you’re away at the barbeque or celebration. Block out any outside sights and sounds to keep your dog as calm as possible. Because many dogs are afraid of loud noises like fireworks, do your best to keep their effect on your dog at a minimum – leaving the TV or radio on a calm station is a good idea. Before you leave, if your dog seems extra anxious, spend some time with your dog to calm their nerves.

Avoid Scraps from the Grill

Everyone wants to “treat” their pup to a special snack, but sudden changes to their diet can cause an upset stomach. It is also important to keep in mind that many of the foods we love are not pet-friendly. Foods such as onions, avocado, grapes and raisins, and chocolate can be toxic to dogs. Here is a list of

ID and Updated Collar Tags

Lastly, if your dog does get loose, it is important to have them microchipped, or in the very least, to have their collar tags updated with current information. That way, if someone finds your dog, they can call you right away, or have the pet scanned for a microchip at the shelter or vet’s office.