Peaceful Pets: Creating a Safe Haven for Your Furry Companions on July 4th
Summer is about spending time outside with those we love—which more often than not includes our pets. While the 4th of July really serves as the epitome of summer, it can be quite scary for our pets. Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital is here with some tips to help you make this holiday safe and comfortable for your pets.
Know Before You Go
If this is your pet’s first Fourth of July (with you or in general), it might be best to sit this one out. Once you know for sure how they respond to crowds, fireworks, traffic, and parties you can start to integrate them into your social plans. Even then, however, typically relaxed, social pets can quickly become triggered by external stimuli and react to a fight-or-flight instinct.
Never Alone
The day after the Fourth of July is one of the busiest days of the year at animal shelters. The reason for this is simple: fright. When pets are scared, they tend to attempt outrunning the source of their fear. This can lead to temporary or permanent separation, accidental injury, or even death.
The best way to prevent this is to stay with your pet and be sure they are supervised. If you are not able to tend to their needs during the holiday, ask a friend or neighbor to drop by to check on them. Also, check your home’s windows, doors, gates, and fencing to reduce escape attempts.
Identification Matters
Because collars can be purposefully removed or accidentally fall off, pet microchips are critical to a pet’s return home. If it’s been a while since your pet’s microchip was implanted, and you’ve moved or changed phone numbers since then, please check your chip’s manufacturer to update your information. We can help you with this, or we can microchip your pet if they aren’t already.
A Safe Haven
To prioritize pet safety during firework displays and thunderstorms, we recommend setting up a room as far away from the noise as possible. Close the windows and blind, set up your pet’s favorite bed/crate, gather up their preferred toys, and don’t forget their treats and plenty of fresh water.
Play soft, soothing music or watch TV together. Keep lights low and the energy will follow. When you give your pet time, attention, and affection during potentially stressful situations they will likely respond with openness, playfulness, and even relaxation.
When to Make Changes
When pet stress or anxiety isn’t fully assessed and supported, their feelings can intensify. To prevent full-fledged phobias from impacting future holidays or events, pets may benefit from behavioral training, including desensitization, comforting clothing (like the Thundershirt), pheromones, and even prescription medication.
A Happy and Safe Holiday
If the proper precautions are observed, this time of year can be exciting and memorable for pets and people alike. Please call us at (916) 624‑PETS (7387) with additional concerns or questions. Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital is always here to help.