Independence Day is a quintessential American holiday, but the excitement and noise associated with the festivities can be upsetting and, in some cases, dangerous for your pet. Our Cupertino Animal Hospital team doesn’t want a veterinary emergency to interrupt your celebration, and we describe several predicaments your pet may experience on July Fourth and provide tips to keep your furry pal safe and secure.

July Fourth pet predicament 1: Benita the Bengal cat escapes

Benita was enjoying her fourth daily nap when strangers invaded her home. They were loud and disrespectful of Benita’s space and need for her beauty sleep. She decided to find a quieter place for her evening snooze and slipped out a door when one of the strangers was leaving.

Cupertino Animal Hospital (CAH): Benita is not alone. Many pets go missing on and around July Fourth when they seek to escape July Fourth noise and related shenanigans. Tips to keep your pet from doing a disappearing act include:

  • Identifying your pet — Ensure your pet is microchipped and wearing a collar with identification (ID) tags that have your current contact information so if your pet goes missing, whoever finds them can reunite you with your furry pal. 
  • Securing doors and windows — Close and secure doors and windows to prevent your escape artist pet from finding a way outside. 
  • Warning your guests — Post notes on doors warning guests to watch for your pet when entering and leaving your home and to ensure your furry pal stays inside. 
  • Confining your pet — If your pet is prone to running away, consider confining them to a quiet room or their crate during the festivities.
  • Leashing your pet — When out and about with your pet, keep your four-legged friend leashed to better control their activity.

July Fourth pet predicament 2: Louie the Labrador retriever gets a belly ache

Appetizing aromas enticed Louie to find his way to the kitchen where his owner seemed to be busy fixing many yummy treats. One particular platter Louie found on the table contained a mound of tempting meaty morsels. When his owner’s back was turned, Louie snagged as many pieces as he could, much to his owner’s dismay. However, Louie was also dismayed later when his belly started giving him fits. 

CAH: Poor Louie. Luckily, his gastrointestinal (GI) upset resolved after a few hours, but not all pets are so lucky after eating foods they shouldn’t. In addition to developing GI upset, pets can ingest foreign bodies, such as bones or plastic wrap, which typically require surgical removal. Also, many foods, such as alcohol, chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol-containing baked goods, served at July Fourth gatherings are toxic to pets. To protect your pet from dangerous foods, follow these tips:

  • Secure your trash — Keep your garbage in secure containers to help prevent dumpster diving.
  • Keep your pet out of the kitchen — When preparing the July Fourth feast, crate your pet or put up a baby gate to keep them out of the kitchen.
  • Avoid feeding table scraps — Remind your guests not to feed your pet table scraps.
  • Pick up discarded plates and cups — Patrol the party area frequently and pick up discarded plates and cups so your pet isn’t tempted to clean off the leftovers.

July Fourth pet predicament 3: Francesca the French bulldog overheats

Francesca was so excited to go to the July Fourth parade. She enjoyed the many sights, smells, and sounds, but the sweltering heat made her feel unwell. Fortunately, Francesca’s owner noticed her distress and took her back to the air-conditioned house before she developed a serious problem.

CAH: Pets, especially flat-faced (i.e., brachycephalic) breeds, such as French bulldogs, are susceptible to heatstroke. Signs include lethargy, excessive panting and drooling, and red mucous membranes. Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can quickly cause significant body-wide consequences for your pet. Keep your pet cool on July Fourth and all summer long by following these tips:

  • Pack water — On outings, pack water and a portable water bowl and frequently offer your pet a drink.
  • Take breaks — Take frequent breaks in the shade to let your pet cool down.
  • Never leave your pet in a vehicle — Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. The interior can quickly reach dangerous temperatures, and parking in the shade or cracking the window does not keep temperatures at a safe level.
  • Leave your pet at home — On hot, humid days, leave your pet at home to enjoy the air conditioner.

July Fourth pet predicament 4: Cha-chi the Chihuahua has a panic attack

Cha-chi was scared silly! Loud bangs and booms were coming from outside. He ran in circles and hid under the bed, but he couldn’t get away from the noise. The commotion seemed to last for hours, and Cha-chi is now scarred for life.

CAH: Many pets have noise phobias, which cause panic attack-level reactions. If your pet has a noise phobia, they need veterinary care to help address the issue. We can suggest behavioral modification techniques to help your pet, but these methods typically take months to become effective. We can also prescribe anti-anxiety medications and sedatives to help your pet cope with the July Fourth noise.

To have your pet microchipped or to discuss options to address your furry pal’s noise phobia, contact our Cupertino Animal Hospital team.