Barbecues, picnics, pool parties, and fireworks: These are the hallmarks of summer get-togethers. And while they’re often fun for people, they can be stressful and fraught with potential danger for our furry friends. This summer, take a few moments to pup-proof your summer celebrations to ensure safe fun for everyone in your household.
Fireworks Safety
Many dogs dislike loud noises, and fireworks season can be tough for them. While your pup’s fear and anxiety might be your biggest concerns, pet experts warn of the very real risks of pets going missing this time of year. When dogs get spooked, they often dart away and get lost or hurt themselves. Dogs may also react in unpredictable or dangerous ways or may even injure themselves with the fireworks.
If your dog is afraid of fireworks, desensitization can help reduce their stress. Begin by playing fireworks sound effects on your phone or TV at a low volume and offering high-value treats when your dog responds calmly. Do not reward anxious or fearful behavior with either treats or attention. As your dog becomes more tolerant of the fireworks sounds, you can gradually increase the volume.
Before fireworks season, check that your dog is microchipped and that their chip and ID tag contain your current contact information.
If necessary, talk to your vet about calming treats, vests, and other tools to help your pup feel more relaxed and secure during not just fireworks but thunderstorms, construction, and other loud, noisy events or activities.
Outdoor Fire Safety
Fireworks safety and fire safety go hand in hand, especially when it comes to our furry friends. Whether you’re planning a summer bonfire or cookout, keeping your furry friend safe ensures a happier, healthier time for everyone.
Dogs are social animals, and they often want to engage with guests during summer events. Unfortunately, not all events are dog-friendly. Barbecues, picnics, and other summer gatherings can bring pitfalls for pups and their people, including fire hazards and food dangers. Monitor your dog closely when they’re outside to ensure they aren’t countersurfing or being fed inappropriate foods, such as garlic, onion, or raisins, by well-meaning loved ones.
Keep your dog away from open flames, too. While most animals naturally avoid fires, dogs are naturally curious and may not keep a safe distance. Leashing your dog around open flames is the safest choice during outside activities that involve fire. Keep an extinguisher and a bucket of water or hose on hand when using a barbecue, fire pit, or bonfire to extinguish flames quickly as needed. Leave fireworks to the pros.
Indoor Fire Safety
According to the National Fire Protection Association, curious pets start about 1,000 house fires each year. Taking steps to pet-proof your home might just be one of the best ways to protect your pup this summer. Keep open flames out of your dog’s reach, and never leave them unattended around any fire, including bonfires, fireplaces, or candles. Remove stove knobs when you are not actively cooking, and use flameless candles whenever possible. Keep puppies and adolescent dogs secured in crates or behind baby gates in safe areas when you are not home to reduce their risk of getting into dangerous mischief with electric appliances, cords, or other hazards.
Summer is also a good time to review your fire safety plans. Training your dog to respond to smoke detectors can help them be better prepared for emergencies. Test your smoke detectors periodically to help your dog become used to the sound, and train them to go to a specific location near an exit when they hear it. Make a game of it with high-value treats or toys.
Because dogs and other pets often forget training when they are stressed and simply hide, make a note of their favorite hiding spots so you can quickly reach them in case of an actual emergency.
Plan and practice escape routes with your pets, and work with each family member, assigning roles so that every member understands their role. Designate a gathering place outside, and most importantly, once you are out, stay out.
Playful Pack is here to support summer fun, however you celebrate. Contact us today to find out more!