Four Dangers the Fourth Presents to Your Pets (And How to Avoid Them)

While enthusiastic patriots revel in their love for freedom with smoked meats, aperitifs and illegal pyrotechnics, many dogs and cats exist among a veritable Temple of Doom—full of danger lurking around every corner.

Well that may be a bit of an exaggeration, but the Fourth of July does present some varied dangers to your pets, according to dvm360.com. The good news is, all of them are easily avoidable with minimal effort.

Fireworks

These are probably the most obvious of dangers, but we'd be remiss not to mention them. We won't insult you by telling you why fireworks and pets shouldn't mix. Just take extra care to make sure they don't (fireworks are dangerous for pets to eat, too—so make sure that doesn't happen, either). Consult a vet immediately if either of the two aforementioned suggestions don't work out.

Glow Sticks

Glow sticks fall into that strange range of thin, wire-like things that, for some reason, are often mind-blowingly alluring to cats. This can be problematic, as the inner contents are fairly caustic to the skin and eyes. Your pet may begin excessively salivating if they've ingested the material. Check here for more signs of ingestion and treatment options.

Hot Weather

Like humans, some dogs are more prone to overheat than others (we're looking at you, smooshed-nosed dogs). If your pooch is one of the breeds or body types that are in the danger zone, make sure to keep him or her cool—especially on 80+ degree days with 70-80 percent humidity. Fresh and frequent cool water is an easy form of prevention, and prevention is the best way to avoid heat stroke.  

Picnic Foods

You no doubt know how to feed your pet by now, but it's worth a reminder that some common Fourth of July foods can present a serious health risk for your pets. Here's a vet's warning for problem foods:

• Corn cobs—can become lodged in the throat or intestines, many times requiring surgery.
• Grapes and raisins—can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs and cats. Carrots, beans, peas and apples are safe.
• Grease Pans—make sure fido can't get into your grill's. High quantities of fat can result in painful and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.

And finally, if your pets can't stand the explosion of fireworks, make sure to check out this helpful remedy post.

We salute you, responsible pet owners.