Keep Pets Safe and Happy During Independence Day Celebrations

Between parades, visitors, vacations, and the crackle of fireworks, Fourth of July festivities are filled with celebration; but unlike people, many pets associate those festivities with anxiety and panic. Dr. Lori Corriveau, wellness clinician in the Purdue University Veterinary Teaching Hospital’s Small Animal Community Practice, advises there are many simple ways to protect companion animals during Independence Day celebrations.

“Owners must use common sense when they allow pets to join the festivities,” said Dr. Corriveau. “For example, you should be mindful that some dogs like chasing those spinning and swirling fireworks on the ground. Others fear loud noises and you should take steps to mitigate their stress.”

Before firing off those bottle rockets, Dr. Corriveau suggests these helpful tips for lowering the stress of pets on and around July 4th:

Before the Festivities

Make sure your pets have updated contact information on their collar or harness. Consider leaving their IDs and harness on during this stressful time, as the extra excitement could lead your pets to run if presented with an opportunity. If your pet gets loose, make sure you have a current photo to help you reunite.

Remember to never leave pets alone outdoors when anticipating fireworks in your area, even if tethered or in a fenced yard. Dogs, especially, may escape and become lost or injure themselves chewing or choking on their leashes. Keep small pets indoors, preferably in a room without windows, and keep horses in their stalls. Make sure all sharp objects are removed from these enclosures.

Before the fireworks show, put indoor pets into a small, darkened room they are familiar with. Turn on the radio or TV for distraction and noise, and reward calm behavior with high-value treats.

Exercise your pets thoroughly before the fireworks start. A tired pet is a less anxious pet and will generally be mellower during the festivities.

Speak to a veterinarian about giving a mild sedative or tranquilizer to calm the fears of an over-stressed dog, cat, or horse. Sedation is helpful to some horses and dogs, and keep in mind that noise phobia can get worse as a pet ages.

If their fear seems to be maladaptive or getting worse, consider behavioral therapy to desensitize your pet and reduce the risk of panic.

During the Festivities

Unless you know from experience that your pet is not stimulated by fireworks, do not take pets to fireworks shows. As always, do not leave a pet in a car unattended.

Keep pets on leash or in a carrier if they must be outside.

Protect animals from children, and children from animals, who may not realize that waving sparklers or setting off “safe” fireworks could upset pets.

After the cookout, check your yard and your home for food scraps, leftover sparklers, or other debris that could be harmful for your pet.

“It’s up to us to keep our animals safe and out of harm’s way,” says Dr. Corriveau. “By planning ahead and keeping their safety in mind, everyone can have a safe and happy Independence Day.”

Writer(s): Lauren Bruce | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Recent Stories

“Paws Up” – brought to you by the PVM Wellness Committee

Today we’re sending a big “High Five” to Emma Wood, who is a Medical Oncology Client Liaison and the Client Liaison Team Lead for the Purdue Small Animal Reception Team, for the supportive energy she brings to her work every day.

In Memory: Former Veterinary Medical Library Staff Member Tonya Mull 

The Purdue Veterinary Medicine community is saddened to learn that Tonya R. Mull of Lafayette, Indiana, who served as a longtime Purdue Libraries staff member, including multiple years as a staff member in the Veterinary Medical Library, passed away October 18 at Franciscan Health Lafayette East.  She was 59.

PVM Symposium Offers MOAAR Education on Medicine of Aquatics, Amphibians and Reptiles

Veterinary professionals and students gathered recently at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine to take advantage of a special opportunity to enhance their knowledge and expertise about the care and treatment of aquatic, amphibian, and reptilian species. The fifth biennial Medicine of Aquatics, Amphibians, and Reptiles (MOAAR) Symposium was held October 18–19, at Lynn Hall on Purdue University’s West Lafayette campus, bringing together veterinarians, veterinary technicians, students, and experts dedicated to the care of exotic species.

Local Veterinary Celebration Highlights Global Veterinary Education

Going global is a popular ambition in the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine as evidenced by the turnout for the college’s annual Global Engagement Fair last Friday, October 17. Held in the Veterinary Medical Library in Lynn Hall, the festive event featured international cuisine and displays about various study abroad opportunities available to Purdue DVM and Veterinary Technology students.