4th of July Safety Tips for Dogs

Heading outdoors with your furry best friend today? Here are a few tips to keep him/her safe.

– Find a shady retreat for your pup. It’s hot out there and your dog can overheat if proper precaution isn’t taken.
– Make sure to keep a bowl of water under the shady retreat. Don’t leave the water bowl out in the sun. Who wants to drink hot water when hot?
– If going to the beach, bring a towel for your dog as well. The sand can get scorching hot and your pup will need a place to rest his paws.
– Puppies and breeds like American Bulldogs can be prone to sunburn. You can use baby sunscreen in moderation for delicate areas such as the muzzle and bellies. There are also sunscreens specifically made for dogs.

Watch for signs of overheating in dogs, which include:

– Excessive/rapid panting and drooling
– Coordination problems
– Vomiting and/or diarrhea
– Collapse
– Loss of consciousness

Should your dog show any of these symptoms seek immediate medical attention.

Does your dog fear fireworks? Then he or she should stay inside today. Provide a safe, comfortable place for your dog to hang out. If your dog is crate trained, that is the best place for him or her to be. You can also leave the TV or radio on to create some distraction. Also, try leaving a chew toy for your dog in their “safe space”.