July 4th DANGERS for pets!!

July 4th is just around the corner and we all know that we love our beaches and barbecues! It wouldn't be a holiday without friends, family, and of course, our furry family members. I just wanted to mention a few potential dangers over the holiday weekend that can effect your pet and your holiday weekend!

Bones from leftover meat:

Please do NOT give your leftover steak bones/chicken bones to your pets to munch on as a treat. These bones can either splinter in their stomach or intestines, potentially causing an obstruction or perforation and possibly making it a LIFE THREATENING situation; sometimes causing the need for expensive and painful exploratory surgery to remove them from your pet.

Corn on the cob:

Usually seen with larger dogs like Labrador Retrievers, they get so excited to eat it that they literally inhale the entire cob without proper chewing and/or digesting. This can also cause a life threatening blockage.

Fruit Pits; example Peach Pits:

You may give your pets a peach or an apple to chew on however I have seen many a peach pit get stuck inside an animals intestines because though it may go down easy, it does not come out the same way. Please remove all pits and seeds if giving your pet any fruit and also make sure that they are NOT harmful to your pet. For example, many people give grapes as a treat to their dogs, however, grapes can actually be toxic and/or deadly to your dog. Please do your research before giving your pet anything to eat besides dog food or treats.

Fireworks:
Just like thunderstorms, a lot of dogs get very anxious and/or nervous with the loud sounds of thunder and fireworks. There are a few options in order to help your pet during these situations.

First: Don't bring them to the beach if you know they are scared of fireworks and loud noises.

Second: There is a new product on the market called The Thundershirt. It can be used for thunderstorms, fireworks, separation anxiety, and many more possible uses. The shirt is basically like a "big hug" for your pet and focuses on pressure points that help to calm them down. I did try this product myself when I brought my French Bulldog to work with me and she would not stop barking when a dog was in a run next to her. After about 25 minutes of the shirt properly put on, she eventually calmed down and even fell asleep. Personally, I do believe the shirt works with certain pets if put on correctly.

Third: Your veterinarian can prescribe you a mild sedative that you can give your dog that will help him or her to relax. Some veterinarians may even suggest Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and how much depends on the size of your dog. Sometimes this also helps them to relax and it's over the counter. ALWAYS MAKE SURE TO ASK YOUR VET HOW MUCH TO GIVE YOUR PET BEFORE ADMINISTERING ANY MEDICATIONS.

Try to keep your dogs leashed or fenced in to avoid potentially running into a busy street!!

Until next time!

Rachel Husney, LVT