Pet Safety & The 4th of July

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If you've been on The Road with pets for awhile you’re already aware of the extra care your fur-babies require to be healthy and happy. You keep them close, you're mindful of their safety, and you're hyper vigilant about their diet, anxiety, and general well being. Dogs (and even cats) are extremely adaptable, and take well to Nomad Life, but certain situations can still be traumatizing and unnecessarily dangerous for our furry friends.

The 4th of July is the busiest time of the year for animal shelters. The loud noises, bright lights, and crowds can cause frightened pets to panic and run. Add to that the fact that suddenly everything seems to be on fire or spewing sparks, ash, and sulfur, and even the fiercest Rottweiler can become terrified. A mild mannered Lab can get viscous to the point of attacking the fireworks themselves.

Here are some tips on ways to avoid these issues and keep you best friend happy through Independence Day.

  1. Get Out Of Town: Even residential neighborhoods often sound like a war zone on July 4th. The constant bombing, blasting, a booming, is terrifying to your pet, and since it seems to come from all directions at once, there is no escape. - It's a great time to head for the mountains or at least out in the country where the shelling is less severe.

  2. Update Tags And Chips: It's fight or flight... usually “flight”. Make sure all your critters have ID Tags and/or Microchips, and make sure the contact info or chip registration is up to date.

  3. Do A Little Recon: Should the worst happen and they get injured or run away, know ahead of time where the closest Vet, Animal Hospital, and Shelters are.

  4. Stay Close: An unfortunate number of people seem to think that simply locking Fido in the Bus or Van solves the problem.... No. It doesn't. While cats will go and hide, Dogs want to be with their people. To be alone in a frightening situation only adds to the anxiety, and greatly increases the risk of injury while attempting escape. Staying by your dog's side will help them adjust and feel protected by the pack. Break out the leash, have them sit by your chair, and keep petting them and telling them it's okay.

  5. Keep It Small: Avoiding crowded events with people your pet doesn't know will ease the anxiety. Stick with familiar people and avoid large crowds.

  6. Mind The Heat: It's Summer. A combination of heat, loud noises, packed spaces and scorching blacktop can not only be stressful, but harmful to your pet’s health. Make sure they have a cool place to lie and plenty of water.

  7. Have A Plan: Long before the fireworks start you should create a safe place for your pet. Whether in the Bus or next to your chair, bring a blanket, their favorite toy, treats, whatever it takes to keep them comfortable. - Be sure to give your pets lots of exercise during the day, so they’ll be content and a little tired before the scary noises start at night. Take them for a hike, run, or even a nice long game of fetch to help with your pet’s overall stress and anxiety level.

  8. Wrap Them Up: Confining movement in dogs and cats actually has a calming effect on them, which is why you might want to consider an anti-anxiety wrap or coat. Click the image below to check one out.

  9. Take A Pill. Talk to your vet in advance about anti-anxiety chews, drops or other remedies that can help your pet “pre-lax”. There are plenty of prescription and homeopathic solutions out there that can help your pet get the extra dose of relaxation that he or she needs. Click the image below to see what's available and compare.

  10. Take Them Out: If it's too much for them to handle, just load them up in the Van and drive away. When you park for the night, be sure you have an escape route in case you need to leave, mid-festivities. Your pets are your family, and you've seen fireworks before...

    Click the images below for some products that might help keep them happy, mellow, and safe.

Freedom is closer than you think.