Pet Safety Tips for the 4th of July

Here are some safety reminders to help you keep your animal pal safe over the 4th.

1. Keep them away from displays. With their heightened senses, this can be overwhelming, causing them to run off.
2. If they are outdoor animals, consider bringing them inside. The loud, unexpected noises, smells and commotion can be terrifying for them. This needs to be balanced with the anxiety they may experience if they are not used to being indoors.
3. Make sure their ID is current, legible and visible. If they’re microchipped, make sure the contact information in the microchip registry is current. It’s a good idea to have a current photo of all of your animal pals, including horses — just in case.
4. Speaking of horses, be sure pasture fences are secure enough to keep horses or other livestock confined, so they can neither jump over them or break through them. Evaluate your options, and choose the safest area for your animals.
5. If needed consult with your vet if you feel your animal pal may benefit from medication.
6. If your animal pal is OK with this, consider putting them in a safe, escape-proof room or crate during parties and fireworks. If you choose to do this, make sure they have access to food, water, toys and for cats, a litter box.
7. If they need to be by your side, a leash or keeping them in their kennel beside you are two possibilities.
8. Be prepared. A little preparation is worth a lot of sleep insurance! Have a pet first aid kit on hand, as well as the phone numbers for your vet, your emergency vet and the pet poison hotline
9. You know your animal pal best — use your own wisdom, agency and discretion when it comes to keeping them safe.

My work is devoted to helping you show up in the world for animals from the fullness of your authentic self. To find out more visit janetroper.com

Just for today remember: We all do better when all creatures do better. Until next week, take good care!

Janet Roper is a podcaster, intuitive practitioner and mentor who for 20+ years has helped people restructure their relationship with animals. Two of her most popular resources are her monthly newsletter and her podcast True Kinship With Animals. Visit her website to learn more.