Pet Safety for July 4th

The 4th of July is upon us, which means fireworks, picnics, summer heat and more fireworks. Make sure to take precautions for your pet during this holiday and keep them safe.

Fireworks

They are loud and stressful...for your pet. Loud sounds can cause your pet to feel anxious and frightened. They will even run away if they get too upset.

Follow these tips for firework safety:

• Keep them inside the house
• If you leave, put them in a crate or small room like a bathroom
• Prevent them from chewing on used fireworks by cleaning up the yard and street
• Have them microchipped and keep ID tags updated in case they run away
• Check into Thunder Shirt, a special shirt that can help keep them secure and calm

Cook Outs and Picnics

Remember to not feed your pet table scraps, especially meat bones and corn on the cob, as they could cause an obstruction and harm your pet. So your pet is included with the fun, have them eat their own food and treats while you eat your meal (although, they will probably spend the entire time begging, at least they are being offered their own food and not yours).

The Heat

Just remember that July is a hot month and to keep your pet comfortable and hydrated. Don't leave them in a hot car, even if it's in the shade. Keep the pads of the feet off hot cement and asphalt as much as possible or get special booties. 

Have a good time with your pet on this special holiday and be safe! 

5 Tips for Making Your Pet Comfortable at the Vet

The veterinary clinic can sometimes seem like a scary place for your pet, especially if he or she has never experienced it before. It can also be stressful to make the trip for an appointment. But don't worry! There are ways to help your pet get accustomed to visiting the vet so that both of you can leave feeling satisfied.

Tip #1: Take your pet to the clinic multiple times before doing any exams or shots. Let him/her walk around and smell everything. It's important for your pet to get to know the staff on a non-invasive basis. Allow them to pet and dote over your loved one. Treats are a great way for him/her to associate the clinic with something good and positive. The staff will always have treats and are more than happy to give one (or two) to your pet. Then when you return for an actual visit, your pet will feel at home!

Tip #2: Prepare your cat for the car ride and vet visit. It's a known fact. Cats do not like cars, let alone the vet. But, there are ways to help them get comfortable with the idea. One thing that is important is get them used to the carrier. Leave it out somewhere in your house with treats inside and allow them to sniff and walk in and out several times. They will still likely hate the car, but at least they are familiar with and are safe in their crate. Again, try going to the vet a few times to get them familiar with a new surrounding.

Tip #3: If you stay calm, they'll stay calm (for the most part). Sometimes our clients can be just as anxious as their pets. It can be stressful to watch your baby being handled and given shots. However, it does not help him/her to see you just as fearful. To him/her, you are his/her protector and parent. If he/she sees you upset, this intensifies what he/she is already feeling. Try your best to be calm and do exactly what the vet tech and veterinarian tell you to do. They are trained professionals and do this on a daily basis.

Tip #4: Bring treats...lots and lots of treats. Who says you can't bribe your pet? Rewarding your pet for good behavior at the vet is encouraged. Also, allowing the vet and vet techs to give treats to your pet shows him/her that they can be trusted (at least a little).

Tip #5: Play with or take your pet on a walk before appointment. This will cut down on nervousness and get some of his/her energy out. It will also help prevent accidents at the vet.

Follow these simple tips and you have a greater chance of having a successful vet visit!