Holiday Wisdom

I know I'm ready to head out those office doors and collapse into a weekend of relaxing and festivities, I know many of you feel the same way! Cook outs, lawn games with family and friends, and of course fireworks! Who wouldn't be excited for the holiday weekend? 

Your dog, that's who. 

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A lot of people forget that while they're out enjoying the smells and sights of the holiday weekend, their dogs are scared out of their wits.

The hustle and bustle of people coming and going, the different smells that saturated the air, and lets not forget the popping and fizzing of fireworks and sparklers. The holiday weekend can be extremely stressful for our four-legged companions. It's one of the main reasons why the number of stray or run away dogs increases by nearly 50%. That's crazy! That's 50% more dogs flooding into already overcrowded shelters and local rescues. Of those 50%, only 3% (roughly) are found and claimed by their owners.  

There are some things you can do to help keep your dog safe and happy during the celebrations of the weekend. 

1. Keep your dog at home.- Even if Fido is normally really great around big crowds of people or loud noises, it takes just one second for panic to set in and a catastrophe to occur. Plus, you have to remember that not everyone is dog savvy and that while your dog may be awesome when it comes to meeting new people, new people may not be so awesome at meeting your dog. 

2. NEVER use sunscreen or insect spray meant for humans on your dog. - What is not toxic to us can be very toxic to a dog. For example DEET bug spray is highly toxic and can have lasting neurological effects.

3. Keep glow sticks/necklaces/ bracelets/ etc. away from your dog. - If your dog were to chew or swallow any part of the jewelry, not only could it cause an obstruction that would require surgery, but it's also toxic and can cause vomiting, lethargy, excessive drooling, gastrointestinal upset, etc.  

4. Citronella insect control products like candles and sprays can hard your dog - If youre yard is super buggy and your going to be lighting a few Citronella candles, it's best to keep your dog indoors. If your dog inhales the fumes it can cause respiratory distress and permanent damage to the nervous system. 
*The lemon spray found in my previous post, will help repel fleas and mosquito.  

5. Make sure your dog is wearing proper identification at all times. - Fireworks or other loud noises can stress an otherwise calm dog causing them to panic breaking a lead or jumping a fence to find shelter. If your dog happens to break free of the yard, it's best to ensure he can be found, identified and returned home as quickly as possible. Microchips work best as they can't fall off and will last a lifetime, but at least make sure your pooch has a collar with a name and contact information on it. 

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I hope you have a safe and happy Holiday weekend!!!

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