Pet Owners: A Quick Reminder About 4th Of July Safety

Guys, the big weekend is coming up. The Fourth of July! I know we're all excited. But please keep in mind, we need to keep the whole family safe.

And that means not just you and the kids, but your furry family, too.  Now keep in mind, if you live in the city, you ABSOLUTELY CANNOT use fireworks within Sedalia's city limits. They can't sell them in city limits, either. So this really is just for people out in the county, because I'm SURE nobody in the city limits will be discharging any type of firework. Ever.  Not in my neighborhood.  But there will be a city fireworks show, so the noise will be real.

1. Keep them away from fireworks.

This seems like a no brainer, but it's about the noise.  They don't understand what's going on, and they have no concept of whether or not they're in real danger. They may see you enjoying the show and think they can, too.

2. Make their space as comfortable as possible.

Give them all the little things like they like, such as pet toys, a pet bed.  Make sure they're cool and in a room where they can choose to be away from it. Maybe turn on the tv? You know your pet pretty well and what they do and don't like.  Especially if you're going to be out on the lawn and they'll be in alone, if you make them extra comfy they're more likely to stay put and not act out.

3. Make sure they have their collar on.

According to the American Humane Society, July 5th is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters in the United States, thanks to scared pets running away from fireworks. So if you DO have your dog outside, make sure they're on a leash, and have their collar and tags on.

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4. Keep them away from people food.

It's tempting to hand your dog or cat a steak or chicken bone, but it can be deadly if it gets stuck - especially if they're not used to it.  Just don't do it.  I mean, in general you don't want them to eat people food, but especially avoid it this weekend.  And make sure everybody coming over is aware and on board with this rule. You don't want Uncle Steve slipping Rover a bone and end up at the Vet come Wednesday.

5. Keep them out of cars.

Don't leave your dog in a parked car, even at night during a fireworks show. Fourth of July is one of the hottest holidays of the year, and even at 70 degrees, internal car temperatures can reach more than 100 degrees in just minutes. And you know you don't want to deal with someone getting angry and trying to break out your window.

Now again, having said that, I'm absolutely sure there will be NO discharging of fireworks within the city limits AT ALL, but I do feel like these will help those of us in town, too.

Did you note the sarcasm there?  'Cos it was there.  Just saying.  Anyway, I'm sure these little tips are things you already know, it's just a little reminder.  Me and the kitties will probably be indoors and far away from all of it, ha!

Safely yours,
Behka