Protect your pets Independence Day weekend

July 3, 9:29 AMChicago Pets ExaminerSusan NC Price

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Crystal knows the value of cooling off in summer. Here,
she combines drinking and cooling with a wade in a pond.

Here's a short list of do's and don'ts gleaned from my recent articles on protecting pets from heat, noise and inappropriate food, all of which hazards could confront your pet at 4th of July celebrations.

DO:

Take your pet out for exercise and play early in the day while temperatures are lower and before noisy parades and firecrackers start.

Make sure your pets have food and water in a cool, quiet space where they feel safe. Minimize exposure to upsetting, even painful, celebratory noise.

Keep any decorations and legal firework items out of reach of all pets.

DON'T:

Take your dog (cat, bird, ferret or any other pet you might normally take outside) to parades, crowded picnic areas, rock concerts or firework displays. That's just asking for a panicked or injured dog ... and one much more likely to attack out of fear, even the most even-tempered of animals. If you ride, note that your horse probably will not be welcome in a crowd situation unless you have official duties which include the horse.

Let strangers feed your pet unknown foods. If you want to let people make friends through treats, carry your own and give them to would-be treat-givers.

Let your dog drink anything but clear water. Dog livers don't handle alcohol, a poison, so making Fido drunk is not funny, it's cruel and dangerous.

And, as with any outdoor summertime activities, give your pets the same protections you would yourself or your kids: sunscreen, insect protection .. and shade and water breaks to keep from overheating. Be safe, and enjoy your Independence Day holiday!