Most of us love a fireworks show.  Few things are as American as a fireworks display.

But there may be someone in your home who doesn’t like the fireworks.  Many dogs and cats get scared by the bangs.  The bright flashes and loud bangs, also associated with thunderstorms, are terrifying to some pets and can cause anxiety, stress and even escape. Normally calm pets may become distressed, destructive and even bite in an attempt to get away from the noises.  While running, they are at risk for being hit by a car, becoming lost or encountering another animal that might be aggressive.  If your pet doesn’t like thunderstorms, don’t take it to the fireworks show, even if the rules permit pets.

Even if you stay home with your pets during the next few days, there could be people in your neighborhood setting off fireworks and even that can scare your dog.  One of our sitters was staying with a dog over Memorial Day and one of the neighbors was setting off some firecrackers.  The dog gets scared during storms and was spooked by the bangs.  If you see your pet is afraid, make sure to calm and reassure them.  If you leave your pets at home when you enjoy the fireworks show or go to a party and you think your pet could get scared of the noise, leave some music on.

Fireworks aren’t the only problem that pets, especially dogs, have to deal with during the summer.  I hope all of you know better than to leave your dog in a car.  Try and walk the dog in grass as much as possible.  Another Fetch! franchise posted this picture on their page today. 

The summer months are flea and tick season.  If you take your dog for walks in the woods, make sure you check it for ticks, especially dogs with long hair like golden retrievers.

If you find your pet disoriented, panting excessively or collapsed in the yard, move him immediately to a cooler environment. Use cool wet towels over his back, armpits and groin to help bring his temperature down. Fans are often helpful too. DO NOT USE ICE! Then, get him to your veterinarian immediately so that they can assess his status and begin life saving treatments.

July 4^th celebrations  and summer evenings are supposed to be fun.  By taking some basic preparations, you won’t have your fun spoiled by a pet emergency.  Happy 4^th everyone!

Fetch! Pet Care of NW Atlanta provides pet sitting, dog walking and cat care services for Roswell, East Cobb, Woodstock and Kennesaw, GA.  You can follow us on Pinterest at http://pinterest.com/fetchnwatlanta/