The 4th of July may be a little more low-key this year, but it will still bring some hazards for your pet. Here are some tips for keeping your animal friend safe while you celebrate:

1. Fireworks are cool, but the racket from even small neighborhood explosives can be terrifying for animals. Keep your pets at home and inside with calm music or white noise on. If your pet has an extreme reaction to the noise such as heavy panting, drooling, shaking, hiding, or trying to escape, we may be able to help with medication or herbal remedies.

2. Grilling is tasty, but cooked meat bones often splinter and become hazardous if swallowed. Nix the corn cobs, too—they can cause intestinal blockage.

3. Beware the booze! It can dangerously intoxicate your pet and could result in coma or respiratory failure. Yes, this includes beer—fermented hops and ethanol are poisonous to both dogs and cats.

4. Heat can kill. Leave your pets at home on hot days and NEVER keep them in a vehicle unattended—even with the windows cracked, your car can become a deadly oven in minutes. If your pet is outdoors, make sure there’s plenty of fresh water and shade.

If you think your pet might need medication to deal with fireworks or have any other questions about pet safety during the summer, give us a call at (205) 494-7113.