Do you know the holiday with the highest rate of lost pets?  According to Nationwide animal control  officers and shelters it’s July 4th.  This is just a reminder to make a place in your home for your pet to feel safe.  A room where you can play music, a white noise machine, have their food, water and toys, for cats a litter box.  Also, make sure that their tags are securely fastened and microchips are up-to-date.  Keep in mind that making a safe room for your pet is a much better option than having someone leave a door open for your pet to escape.  Having them safe in an air conditioned room with food, water and their toys is a lot nicer than running around outside scared.

Another great thing about a safe room is that your pet will not get into food or other things that will make them sick.  If you have a cook-out someone could leave a plate on the ground with onions or grapes on it.  There could be a dessert with xylitol or birch sugar, even chocolate that may be on the edge of the table or left within your pets reach.  Alcohol is not good for pets and someone could easily leave their drink on the ground which your pet may take advantage of. Some of the foods or other things a pet can get into can be deadly.  Keep in mind that if your family or friends don’t have pets they are less likely to be cautious, they may not know which foods are bad or safe for pets.

Well meaning family and friends will want to give your pet a treat.  A bite of a burger or hot dog, sausage or other meats.  If your pet is not used to the food item it could upset their stomach.  No one wants to end a good cook-out cleaning up after the pets.  

This 4th of July, as we are celebrating the USA’s 250 year birthday let’s keep our pets safe.  Remember if you need a break during your cook-out you can always go visit your pet in the safe room.  Everyone will understand your pet needs some attention too!