The 4th of July may be all fun and fireworks for you, but your beloved companion may fear it. With explosions going off overhead, sizzling hot weather, and fire and gastrointestinal hazards around food, your furry pal can encounter many dangers. Turn your July 4th celebration into one for the entire family by following these tips.
#1: Create a healthy barbecue menu for your pet
Few things cause more drool than a juicy T-bone steak or barbecue chicken leg, and your four-legged friend can lose all good sense and snatch one of these treats off the grill. Turn your pet away from temptation—and pancreatitis and gastrointestinal blockages—by designing a healthy menu for them. Toss an unseasoned, boneless chicken breast on the grill, and pair it with a few fire-roasted veggies, like summer squash, carrots, and broccoli. A small amount of this mixture will make your pet think they’re getting a special treat, while the absence of bones, seasonings, and high-fat ingredients will keep their gastrointestinal system happy.
#2: Stay home with your pet during the fireworks show
Fireworks are undoubtedly the worst part of the July 4th holiday for many pets. Skip the backyard display, opt-out of attending your neighborhood show, and spend the evening with your pet instead. Distract them from the loud booms by playing new games, running through old tricks, and creating food puzzles for tasty entertainment. Simply providing comfort and distraction can go a long way toward keeping your pet calm during the fireworks show.
#3: Keep your pet cool with frozen treats
Rather than sticking your pet in front of the air-conditioning vent all summer long, let them outside to enjoy a messy frozen treat. Freeze kibble and small treats in water or low-sodium chicken broth for your pet to enjoy on your patio. For your indoor kitty, freeze blocks of the juice from tuna or canned cat food for a chilly snack.
Please feel free to contact us with any more questions or concerns about your furry friend’s safety this 4th of July.