Fourth of July Hazards for Dogs
Food
Many foods often found at barbeques are dangerous to our canine buddies. Garlic and onions are two of the most common ones, and are particularly concerning because they are often used as toppings. Some other foods to keep away from your pup include avocados; pitted fruits; grapes, currants, and raisins; nuts; chocolate; caffeine; alcohol; raw dough, meat, or potatoes; and anything containing xylitol. You also want to be careful not to give Fido anything with bones. To play it safe, we recommend tossing leftovers away as soon as everyone is done eating. Use secure trashcans, in case your pooch gets any bright ideas about scoring snacks from the garbage. Keep barbeque skewers away from your furry pal as well: these can be very dangerous for dogs!
Fireworks
Many dogs are terrified of fireworks. Every year, many beloved pets are reported missing after the Fourth. We recommend keeping your pup indoors as much as possible on the Fourth, especially after dark. If Fido is scared, put him in his crate or in a quiet back room, and turn a TV or radio on to mask the noise. You can also look into getting a pet-calming shirt for him to wear during the fireworks.
Other Hazards
Citronella candles, bug spray, tanning lotion, glow sticks, and lighter fluid are all toxic to Fido. Keep these things away from your four-legged pal! You’ll also want to be sure to keep Fido away from the grill. Heat is also a danger to dogs in summer. Make sure your pooch has plenty of fresh water, and don’t let him overheat.
Veterinary Care
July is prime season for fleas and ticks. Make sure Fido is up to date on his parasite control. He should also be microchipped and wearing current ID tags.
Please contact us, your Reynoldsburg, OH animal clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are always happy to help!