The Fourth of July can be a very scary and anxious time for pets. Some dogs and cats are a-ok with loud noises and the commotion of a holiday – while others suffer.
First off, know that a dog who has been fine their entire life could suddenly develop anxious feelings about a holiday. It’s not uncommon for moods to change over the years. If you know that your dog or cat gets nervous and hides for a few days, be ready for their disappearance. 
1. Take them on a long walk in the early day to burn off energy and go potty. Odds are once the bottle rockets start – they will not want to be outside.
2. Bring food and water to the area they are hiding. It might be too scary for them to come out from a closet but they are dehydrated and need water. Being mindful of their limitations and making small exceptions on feeding time/location can mean a world of difference for a scared pet.
3. If you use an anti-anxiety for your pet and need to re-up the prescription MAKE AN APPOINTMENT NOW. The week of the fourth is very busy for veterinarians. Getting in the day before might not be an option. Plan in advance.
4. If this is the first time you will be using a prescribed medication to sooth your animal, test it in advance. Testing in advance allows you to know how long it will take to kick in, you can troubleshoot any problems on a non-holiday when your vet is more likely available and you can monitor how your animal reacts. This is VERY IMPORTANT.
During the 4th and after are prime times for animals to ingest fireworks. Whether they have been spent or fresh out of the boxes, these cartridges can be very dangerous and carry toxins. Clean up as soon as possible and store fireworks where animals will not be able to get at them.
ALSO – remember that it’s not just fireworks. Many families will be grilling and having cookouts. Grease underneath the grill and the high fatty content of grilled meat can be very bad for your dog. Consider giving them a new toy they can chew on all day so they will not be begging for hot dogs, burgers or steak. Keeping your four legged friends healthy and happy during the holidays ensure they will be around for the next holiday!
Do you have questions you need answered by a veterinarian? KFGO hosts Dr. Derine Winning several times a month as our pet health and safety expert!
CLICK HERE FOR VALLEY VET HOSPITAL
3210 Main Ave in Fargo
701-232-3391
(Dr. Derine Winning in the KFGO Studio)
Additional episodes:
Pet Insurance – Yes or No? The Vet Weighs In!
The Vet Is In – Discussions on Wet Fur, Expired Human Food and More
The Vet Is In” Allergies, Pancreatitis and More
The Vet Is In: Cannabis for Dogs?
(Amy Iler & JJ Gordon are talk-show hosts at 790 AM KFGO in Fargo-Moorhead. “It Takes 2 with Amy & JJ” can be heard weekdays 11am-2pm. Check out the show page on
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Follow Amy on Twitter
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