Bluegrass Animal Hospital Offers Important Tips for 4th of July Pet Fireworks Safety

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., June 29, 2017 -- The 4th of July is a time for picnics and outdoor celebrations for many Americans. Pet owners, however, should be particularly careful this time of year. There are additional risks and hazards to pets during the summer months and during this holiday in particular.

Bluegrass Animal Hospital wants to make pet owners aware of the risk that fireworks can pose. Most animals react with agitation or fear to loud noises, and the explosions of fireworks can be extremely scary to some animals. If an animal hears loud fireworks while outdoors, they could be triggered and then run away and become lost. Bluegrass Animal Hospital recommends keeping pets indoors and ensuring they have identification on them such as a collar/id tag or microchipping.

Pets should also be kept hydrated throughout the summer months so they avoid heatstroke. A small wading pool in the yard can also help them to stay cool. If sunscreen or insect repellent is used with pets, they should be formulations specially made for use on pets so that their safety is ensured.

Another risk to pets during 4th of July celebrations is possible digestive discomfort or poisoning from “people food.” Chocolate, raisins, grapes, garlic, onions, nuts, candy, fatty foods, meats (especially pork), dairy, processed foods, and alcoholic drinks should not be given to pets.

Cristi Moser, DVM says, “The 4th of July is a fun time of the year, but we’d like to make pet owners aware of the potential dangers to pets. Firework noise can trigger pets, and for animals that are particularly affected, we can discuss anxiety medications to help ease their nerves.”

Those in the area who would like to inquire about the practice or book an appointment may do so by calling (865) 694-8387. Additional information about the Knoxville veterinarian is available at the Bluegrass Animal Hospital website at http://bluegrassanimalhospital.net/.

Bluegrass Animal Hospital 
1439 Ebenezer Road
Knoxville, TN 37922
(865) 694-8387