Have a safe and happy 4th of July with these helpful tips...
- Keep the alcoholic drinks to those humans over the age of 21. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to be poisonous and can cause Fido to become intoxicated, weak, and/or severely depressed. Alcohol has been known to even put dogs into a coma or cause death from respiratory failure.
- As tempting as a taste of BBQ off the grill may be to Fido, a change in diet can cause indigestion and diarrhea, especially in older pets. And don't forget foods such as onions, chocolate, coffee, avocado, grapes and raisins, salt and yeast dough can be toxic to your furry family member.
- The summer sun can be harmful to Fido. Applying a sunscreen that is approved for use on animals can help protect Fido from harmful ultraviolet rays. Check out Sun Spray Sunscreen for Dogs at your local dog boutique. The use and ingestion of human sunscreen can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy.
- Those pesky insect are a painful nuisance to you and Fido but the the misuse of insect repellent that contains DEET can lead to serious neurological problems for your pup. Look for natural alternatives without harmful chemicals or DEET. Ark Natural Neem Protection Spray uses a natural tree oil to help repel those nasty little insects from Fido.
- Keep citronella candles, insect coils and oil products out of reach from Fido. Ingestions of these can produce stomach irritation and possible central nervous system depression. If inhaled, the oils could cause aspiration pneumonia in pets.
- Keep the fireworks to the humans only. Exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns and/or trauma to a curious Fido, even unused fireworks can pose a danger. Many types of fireworks contain potentially toxic substances, including potassium nitrate, arsenic and other heavy metals.
- Matches and lighter fluid oh my...Certain types of matches contain chlorates, which can damage blood cells and result in difficulty breathing or even kidney disease in severe cases. Lighter fluid can irritate Fido's skin and ingestion can produce gastrointestinal irritation and central nervous system depression.
- As much as Fido may want to join in the fun, resist the urge to take him/her along to Independence Day festivities. Keep Fido safe and feeling secure from the noise in a quiet, familiar, sheltered and especially escape-proof area at home.
- Kids may love playing with and wearing glow jewelry, Fido should be kept away from the luminescent substance in these products. Not highly toxic but can cause excessive drooling and gastrointestinal irritation and the risk of intestinal blockage can occur if large pieces of the plastic container are swallowed.
