SECURE THE PREMISES
SECURE THE PETS
Your pet is likely to act differently in response to the activities associated with Independence Day. Your typically affectionate cat may seek solitude, and your generally nonplussed dog may become quite agitated. When pets are scared, they run and hide. For household pets, this can mean darting out in front of vehicles or hiding in unsafe places. Cats might take refuge in the highest branch of a tree or inside a car engine. Escaped dogs and birds might end up miles from home. To ensure this doesn’t happen to your pets, be sure to close all windows and doors that provide access to the outdoors or another part of the house, such as an attic, basement, or garage. If you have guests, put a sign up to remind them to close doors as needed. For dogs that have access to the backyard, make sure gates are securely fastened, even when your pet jumps up against it. An open gate is an open invitation to problems. Never leave your pets outdoors while you’re away and keep an extra close eye on them during the days surrounding Independence Day. They can become so agitated they might jump a fence they normally wouldn’t attempt, or become wrapped up in fencing or other hazards.
The best way to protect pets from the unexpected is to confine them to a safe area. This can be a quiet room with a door, such as a laundry room, bedroom, mud room, or bathroom. Just make sure the windows and doors are securely closed and that the space isn’t too hot. For cats or bunnies, a large closet may do the trick. Dogs might also take refuge in a closet or beneath a table where they feel safe. Make the space inviting with their favorite bedding, blankets, toys, and treats. Again, warn family and guests not to accidentally let the pet out. Some pets can be safely restrained in a kennel or cage. Dogs that are crate-trained are likely to automatically seek out their safe spot when they become agitated. Put birds in their cages and cover them with a cloth. Bring outdoor cats inside, and confine them before guests arrive or the fireworks begin. Close curtains to minimize flashing lights and dampen sounds from fireworks.
PREP THE FOOD
Like any good celebration, Independence Day is a haven for food lovers. The grill is loaded with juicy, aromatic meats, the condiments are prepped, and the table is filled with dishes that represent the harvests of the season. Pets often also want to join in the consumption, and it can be an act that ends with an upset stomach at a minimum and an emergency vet clinic when things really go wrong. Many everyday ingredients humans consume are toxic for pets, so be especially vigilant with onions and garlic, chewing gum, dark chocolate, raisins and grapes, caffeine, alcohol, and THC. Bones can be a choking hazard too, so keep an eye out for bones on unattended plates, in the trash, and on the counter or table. When everyone is done eating, promptly wrap up and refrigerate leftovers so animals can’t get into them.
17
July 2024
Powered by FlippingBook