Keep Your Dog Safe This Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day weekend is a time for remembrance, relaxation, and outdoor fun. However, it’s also a time when our furry friends face unique risks. Here are some tips to keep your dog safe while you enjoy the festivities.
Be Party Smart
Barbecues and outdoor gatherings are staples of Memorial Day celebrations, but they can pose dangers to your pets. Keep alcoholic beverages out of reach, and avoid giving your dog any table scraps that could be harmful. Many foods, including chocolate, grapes, onions and avocado are toxic to dogs. Unattended food like chicken wings can also be dangerous if ingested. Even eating safe foods in large quantities can cause gastrointestinal distress.
Insect repellent and sunscreen intended for humans can be toxic to pets. Check the label before you purchase these products to make sure they are safe around pets.
Pool Safety
Not all dogs are natural swimmers, so never leave your pet unsupervised around a pool or lake. Introduce them to water gradually and consider a flotation device for extra safety. Drinking pool water can make dogs sick due to the chemicals. Keep an eye on your dog anytime they are around a water source.
Provide Shade and Water
Dogs can dehydrate quickly. Make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water and a shady spot to rest. Brachycephalic breeds like pugs and English bulldogs are especially prone to heatstroke. These simple suggestions can be the difference between life and a trip to the emergency vet for your dog.
Secure Identification
With the increase in outdoor activities, there’s a higher chance of pets escaping. Make sure your dog has a microchip or tag with QR code to reach your contact information. If you do not have an electronic style tag, be sure your dog has a tag with your phone number on it. If you are visiting someone out of town, add a sticker saying “Visiting” with a local phone number on the back of the tag.
RexID Small Dog Tag with QR code and passive GPS tracking technology
Firework Fears
Loud noises from fireworks can terrify pets, leading to anxiety and escape attempts. There are medications you can get from the vet, or over-the-counter hemp, ComposureTM or other products that may help. Keep fearful dogs indoors during fireworks and try to find a quiet spot where they feel more comfortable. Sometimes that isn’t enough. You’ll need companion and empathy. Speak softly and calmly to your dog and do not punish it for acting badly when afraid.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your dog enjoys a safe and stress-free Memorial Day weekend. Remember, while we celebrate, our pets rely on us to keep them out of harm’s way.
