Did you know that the 5th of July is the busiest day for most animal shelters? This is because more dogs are lost on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year.

Follow our top pet safety tips to help keep your pets safe and secure this July 4th.

• If your pets aren’t already microchipped, talk with your veterinarian about microchipping
• Make sure your pet’s ID is up to date safe on their person
• Bring your pets in before it gets dark
• Make sure all windows and doors and possible escape routes are closed
• Leave on a background noise to drown out the sounds of the celebrations outside – turn on the TV or play some music. Use a noise source that your pet is used to.
• Going to a Fireworks Display? Leave Your Pet at Home!
• If you’re hosting guests, ask them to help keep an eye on your pets to make sure they don’t escape. Placing notes on exit doors and gates can help both you and your guests remain vigilant.
• Keep your pet away from:
  • Alcohol – Pets get drunk too and it’s not fun or safe for them.
  • Lighter fluid and matches – All contain chemicals that can be dangerous for pets.
  • Glow jewellery – The luminescent chemicals can cause gastrointestinal irritation and you don’t want them eating the plastic tubing and connectors either
  • Do not apply any sunscreen or bug repellent product to your pet that is not labeled specifically for use on animals. Ingestion of sunscreen products can result in drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst and lethargy. The misuse of insect repellent that contains DEET can lead to neurological problems.
  • Foods outside their normal diet. Any change, even for one meal, can give your pet severe indigestion and diarrhoea. If your pet does suffer digestive upset as a result of any such ‘accidents’, HomeoPet’s Digestive Upset can help.
• There are many natural ways to help keep your pet calm during stressful times such as July 4th celebrations, including HomeoPet’s Fireworks – a natural medicine that provides relief from fear of Fireworks.

Have a great 4^th of July! Stay safe and have fun. And don’t let your pet end up on the news, for the wrong reason!