Spoiler alert: It involves not letting your dog eat an entire corn cob.
Let’s be real—there are a ton of blogs out there telling you how to keep your pets safe during the Fourth of July. And while we fully support fireworks anxiety tips and "don’t feed the dog hot dogs" reminders, we’re here to take a slightly different approach. This year, let’s talk about how to keep your veterinarian happy this holiday weekend.
1. Get Those Meds Early, Darling.
If your dog turns into a trembling puddle of panic when fireworks start, please, don’t wait until July 3rd at 4:45 p.m. to call your vet. Spoiler: We are not magicians. Fireworks aren’t a surprise—get your pet’s anti-anxiety meds or sedatives now so you’re not scrambling when the sky starts exploding.
The same goes for pets that get stressed with visitors or parties. If you know Uncle Bob is bringing his three toddlers and your cat hates toddlers, plan accordingly. Calming chews, safe rooms, pheromone diffusers—make a plan, friend!
2. The BBQ is for Humans Only.
Yes, we know your dog has those big, soulful eyes. And your cat is super interested in the grilled shrimp. But please keep pets away from your food and trash. Every year, we see pets with pancreatitis from fatty meats, and more than one poor soul who swallowed an entire corn cob or rib bone and ended up with a very expensive stomachache (and surgery). Just say no to plate licking.
Bonus tip: no alcohol, no chocolate, and no grapes/raisins. We shouldn't have to say it... but here we are.
3. Microchip? ID Tag? Please Say Yes.
Fireworks = flight risk. If your pet bolts in fear and doesn’t have a microchip or a readable tag, it makes it that much harder to reunite you. So double-check their collar and chip info before the festivities begin. Your future self will thank you.
4. Be Mindful of the Heat.
We love a backyard party as much as anyone, but your pets don’t sweat like you do. Limit outdoor time during peak heat, provide water and shade, and please, PLEASE don’t leave pets in the car. Even "just a minute" can be deadly in the July sun.
5. Know Where to Go (Hint: It’s Us).
Despite your best efforts, if your pet gets into something they shouldn’t, gets hurt, or starts acting off—EVS Pet Urgent Care is OPEN on the Fourth of July. Whether it’s a GI emergency, a limping pup, or a foxtail in the nose (we see it all), we’re here if you need us.
So go enjoy your holiday weekend—but do it with a little planning, a dash of common sense, and a healthy dose of pet awareness. Because nothing says freedom like not spending the Fourth in the vet ER.
Happy Independence Day from your firework-dodging, corn-cob-removing, fur-loving team at EVS Pet Urgent Care.
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