Meet Max -- a puppy with lots to learn and a whole summer to
enjoy!
Woah, what's that? Something smells like heaven dipped in
barbecue sauce! Let me just bust outside through the screen door
and see what's happening!
This is Max. And this will be his first 4th of July ever.
He's just about ready to burst from all the excitement -- new
people spending the whole day outside with him, delicious
barbecue smells, and as much fun as he can stand.What he may not
know is that several things about this special day can become a
hazard to a pet -- especially a nosy puppy!If you've already
guessed one thing pets don't always love about July 4th, we're
going to bet it's fireworks. Yes, fireworks can scare a lot of
pets, both cats and dogs, into hiding or even running
away. Max may utilize that busted screen door later in the
night to try to run from the scary noises of the fireworks,
unless of course, his pet parents keep a close eye on him.That
delicious-smelling barbecue might not be the best for Max either
(poor guy!), but that's why we're here to share everything Max is
learning about this boisterous holiday. His cat sister Millie,
who's been around for a few more summers than Max, will try to
show him the ropes, but really, no one can control a boisterous
puppy better than his pet parents.
What Max Needs Today:
Updated ID tags and microchips,
in case he or Millie need to be reunited with their pet
parents.Festive pet treats like special flavored
dog foods.Pet-conscious guests who don't leave the door to
the big wide world open when coming and going.Pet-friendly
sunscreen so Max's delicate nose doesn't burn when he's playing
outside.
Flea and tick protection, so he doesn't become a meal for
nasty bugs that come out in the summer.Being kept safely at home
when the fireworks start -- not in a big scary park with tons of
other dogs, people, sounds... oh my!
Treat-stuffed
toys that give Max and Millie something to play with, engage
with, and gnaw on so all those scary noises aren't so
scary.Homeopathic and natural calming remedies like calming
shirts and drops-- there, that's better!
What Max Won't Like Much:
Getting lost! What's sadder than a lost pet? Not much. Keep doors
and windows closed, even if guests are coming in and out.People
food. Okay, maybe Max is very interested in it, but only until it
causes an upset
stomach. Also, don't let Max or Millie get into
these poisonous
foods for dogs or poisonous
foods for cats.Sparklers and roman candles -- Wayyyy too
dangerous for our furry pals to be near.Fireworks, which can make
pets very frightened and cause them to bolt. Keep your pets at
home when it's time to go sit in the park and watch the
fireworks. Make sure they have a safe and secure room to be in,
plenty of toys to keep them occupied, and calming products if
necessary. Better yet, have someone be the designated doggie
sitter, and play the night away in the name of patriotism!
Plus, take a look at all these other great Independence Day tips!
Made in the USA Pet Supplies
Showcase: These home-grown products will help you show
your pride, and treat your pet.4th of
July Safety Kit for Your Pets: Keep these nifty products
close to hand to make July 4th a pet-safe day.
Made in USA vs. Sourced in the US Pet
Foods: Do you know what the difference is? Find out
here.How to Find
a Lost Pet: If you're afraid your pet will escape or get
lost for any reason, take a look at these tips on finding them
quickly.
Don't forget to check your email inbox this weekend for a special
4th of July sale -- courtesy of Max!
6 Dog Safety Tips for the Fourth of July
While we just talked about this topic with
Sam's post on Tuesday, the topic of dogs and the 4th of July
is a hot one, so we're revisiting some points and introducing a
couple new ones.Loud noises. Big crowds. Flashing lights in the
sky. Leftovers from barbeques. The Fourth of July is a great day
for families and friends all across America, but can be
challenging for your dog. Find out six simple ways you can ensure
a healthy, happy, anxiety-free day for your pup.
1. Food Safety During Barbeques
Whether or not you allow your dog to eat human food is likely a
decision you’ve made a long time ago. But food at a barbeque can
be particularly dangerous for dogs: alcohol is always a no-no,
but so are the onions you’re having on your burger, the avocado
in your guacamole, and the bones that might be in grilled
chicken. Be sure to let your friends know not to share food with
your pet.
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STORY: The Most Poisonous
Foods for Dogs
2. Prepare for Loud Noises
If you know -- or suspect -- that your dog doesn’t like loud
noises, plan ahead. Make sure your pet has a safe spot in the
house to hang out, cover up the noises if possible, and provide
your pet with a Thundershirt
or other swaddle-like outfit.
RELATED
STORY: 5
Tips for Dealing with Dogs Scared of Loud Noises
3. Don’t Bring Your Dog to the Fireworks
The crowds of people, loud crash of the fireworks exploding, and
unexpected flashes of light are hard on your dog. We recommend
that you leave dogs safely at home. It’s easy for a dog to panic,
run away, get lost, or generally freak out during fireworks.
Since it’s not a pleasant activity for pets, leaving them at home
is both the kindest and the safest option.
4. Definitely Don’t Leave Your Dog in the Car
If for some reason, leaving your dog at home is not an option, it
would be preferable to bring your dog with you rather than
leaving your dog alone in the car. During the heat of the
summertime, leaving your dog in the car -- even with the windows
cracked open -- is unsafe.
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STORY: 5
Must-Read Safety Tips for Pets in Hot Weather
5. Make Home Cozy for Your Pet
If your dog will be home alone while you’re out celebrating
Independence Day, or even if you’ll be around, make your house
into a comfortable environment for your pet. For crate-trained
dogs, the crate can be the most comforting place to ride out the
wild night. Close the curtains to help block out the lights from
the fireworks, and think about leaving the television on, or
playing music for an audio distraction. Make sure that all doors
and windows are closed -- even a normally placid pup can have an
urge to escape when confronted a the fear-inducing
situation.
6. Be Careful With Sunscreen and Bug Spray
What’s good for you isn’t necessarily OK for your pet. Don’t give
your pet a spritz of bug spray, and avoid using sunscreen for
people on their fur. As well, citronella and lighter fluid can
also be dangers for dogs, so make sure to keep those items far
away from your pup.
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