Tag Archives: pets and fireworks

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Health

Fourth of July Hazards for Pets

The Fourth Of July is coming up quickly! As you may know, this is a particularly dangerous holiday for our four-legged friends. You’ll want to take some precautions to make sure your beloved pet stays safe and healthy through America’s birthday. Read on as a Georgetown, IN vet lists some July Fourth safety tips for pets.

Heat

Pets can overheat very quickly at this time of year. Fido and Fluffy are wearing fur coats, and they can’t sweat to cool off. Make sure your furry bff always has fresh water and access to cool, shaded areas. Limit your pet’s outdoor time during the hottest parts of the day.

Parasites

Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos will happily join in your celebration. These uninvited guests can carry dangerous diseases, and can also transmit other parasites! Keep up with your pet’s parasite prevention products. We also recommend mowing your lawn regularly.

Fireworks

Many dogs get very frightened by the noise and commotion of fireworks. If your canine buddy is scared of loud noises, bring him indoors well before dark on the Fourth, and set him up in a cozy spot. Turn a TV or radio on to mask the noise. If Fido is extremely nervous when there’s a lot of commotion, ask your vet about using pet-calming products, such as treats and sprays.

Grills

Many of our four-legged friends are very opportunistic eaters, and will snap up anything offered to them. Big dinners and grill-outs are always very dangerous for them, just because there are so many popular foods that are unsafe for them. Some of the dangerous foods include garlie, onions, scallions, and chives; grapes, currants, and raisins; chocolate; caffeine; avocado; pitted fruits; alcohol; meat on the bone; and anything that contains xylitol.

Trash

Use trashcans that close securely. Pets sometimes try to score some leftovers by poking around the garbage. Things like skewers, bones, can lids, trimmings, and can lids are just a few of the dangers that could be lurking in the trash.

Pools/Water

Pools are another concern. While some dogs are great swimmers, even water-loving pups can panic and get into trouble if they fall into the pool and don’t know how to get out again. If you’re taking Fido to a pool or beach, keep a close eye on him.  

Happy Fourth! Please contact us, your local Georgetown, IN veterinary clinic, anytime!

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Care

5 Summertime Safety Hazards for Pets

It’s a safe bet that your pet is looking forward to the warm breezes and family fun of summer just as much as you are. Keep in mind that several pet hazards crop up this time of year—below, your Floyds Knob, IN veterinarian tells you more.

Heat

For animals, the main hazard of summertime is the sweltering heat. They’re simply not equipped to deal with heat and humidity! Keep outdoor sessions short, and try to exercise your pet during the cooler morning or evening hours rather than during the middle part of the day, when it’s hottest. Always make sure your pet has a dish of cool, fresh water to drink from as they please.

Outdoor Pests

Veterinarians typically see an increase in pest-related infestations and infections during the warmer months, as critters like fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and parasitic worms come out of the woodwork to latch on to our animal companions. Avoid the danger before it strikes by keeping your pet on quality preventative medications against these pests. Talk to your vet if your pet needs such measures.

Allergies

Have you noticed your pet sniffling, sneezing, or scratching themselves more than usual this time of year? Allergies may be to blame. Dogs and cats alike can suffer from allergies just like humans can; they may react to pollen, dirt, dust, dander, mold, and more. If you suspect your pet suffers from allergies, contact your vet’s office to ask about medication.

Fireworks

The Fourth of July is just around the corner. Remember that pets don’t take kindly to fireworks; in fact, pyrotechnics usually terrify animals! Don’t risk a runaway pet this summer. Leave your animal friend safely secured at home rather than bringing them to the local fireworks display, and use caution when lighting off firecrackers or sparklers at home.

Lawn & Garden Chemicals

Do you spray fertilizer on your lawn, or pesticides on your garden plants and flowers to keep the bugs away? Keep your pet indoors when spraying chemicals, and make sure they don’t come in contact with any recently treated plants or grass. These chemicals may poison a pet who manages to ingest too much. Also take care to store such chemicals in a place where pets won’t be able to gain access.

These aren’t the only summertime pet hazards out there—talk to your vet in Floyds Knob, IN for more great seasonal safety tips.