Did you know that more pets are lost on Fourth of July than any other day of the year? It’s true. The excitement, loud noises, and extra people around may be exciting for you, but it causes quite a bit of stress and anxiety for our pets. As you probably know, that stress and anxiety lead to accidents, mishaps, and potential emergency situations. Thankfully, UrgentVet is open when you’re pet absolutely cannot wait to feel better. This is why it’s so important to be prepared for anything on days like the Fourth of July. We have compiled a list to help you have you and your pets ready for anything.
- Have our contact information ready. UrgentVet is open from 12:00 – 8:00 pm on all holidays, including Fourth of July. Whether it’s a cut, scrape, vomiting, or more severe, just know we’re here. More importantly, we have two locations to cover a wider area. We can be found in Westchase, FL, Belmont, NC, or in Fort Mill, SC! Contact information, hours, and more can be found on our contact page.
- Prepare your pet. If your pet has an opportunity to slowly become accustomed to the sounds of fireworks, the real thing on the Fourth of July won’t be as scary. Google “firework sounds for dogs” for several free options to help desensitize your pet from the loud bangs. First, play the sounds softly while your pet is doing something he enjoys, like eating or playing. Gradually increase the volume until it sounds like a true fireworks show.
- Provide a safe place with distractions. Some pets might prefer to be secluded in a closed, secure area of your home, like the basement or an interior room. Close all windows, window treatments, and doors. Then, distract your pet with classical music to help lessen the sounds outside, and play games with him or give him chew toys to keep him busy.
- Try products made for this situation. There are many products meant to reduce anxiety and fear in pets. Some include:
- Naturally occurring and calming pheromones (Adaptil for dogs and Feliway for cats) that can be plugged into your wall in the form of a diffuser, sprayed in your pet’s safe place, or even worn as a collar
- Security and anti-anxiety wraps, like the Thundershirt, Storm Defender, Anxiety Wrap, and others
- Nutritional supplements and special diets meant to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and maintain emotional balance (ask us what we recommend!)
- Ear plugs for dogs, originally meant for hunting dogs who were around guns, can help muffle the noise (if you have luck keeping them in your dog’s ears)
- Have you tried anti-anxiety medications? For pets with severe anxiety (watch for signs like shaking, destructive behavior, decreased appetite, incontinence, and excessive salivation), contact your veterinarian or a member of our staff at UrgentVet. Often, the best option for these pets is prescription anti-anxiety medication, which will alter your pet’s brain chemistry, rather than just causing drowsiness, to reduce anxiety.
No matter what comes your way on the Fourth of July, it’s good to know that we’ll be here if you need us. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.