MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
As Independence Day celebrations begin and summer temperatures climb, Hutchinson Small Animal Hospital veterinarian Dr. Jon Austin is encouraging pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their animals safe and comfortable.
Austin said fireworks can be especially stressful for many dogs, often causing anxiety, fear and unusual behavior.
"Some of them won't want to go outside to go to the bathroom, they won't want to go on their walks, they won't want to do their normal activities," Austin said.
He recommends preparing pets before fireworks begin by creating a quiet, secure environment inside the home. Basements, bathrooms or other favorite rooms can help reduce exposure to loud noises, especially when windows, blinds and curtains are closed.
"If they like the kennel, if they like the kids' bedroom, let them be where they like to be," Austin said. "Anything you can do to reduce their exposure helps them not be so afraid."
Austin also encourages owners to make sure pets are wearing collars with current identification tags and a phone number in case they become frightened and escape. Checking fences and gates before the holiday can also help prevent pets from getting loose.
For animals with severe anxiety, Austin said veterinarians can prescribe medications to help.
He frequently prescribes acepromazine during the Fourth of July holiday and recommends giving the medication a couple of hours before fireworks typically begin.
"It just kind of takes the edge off and makes them not be so concerned about the stimuli from the environment," Austin said. "They can still get up and move around, they can eat, drink, they can go potty... it just dulls their responses to stimulus."
"It's a good thing to talk with your veterinarian about," he said. "Communicate with them, let them know what's happening, and they'll have an idea for you."
Beyond the holiday, Austin said summer heat presents another challenge, particularly for short-nosed breeds such as bulldogs, pugs and boxers.
"Humidity and heat are the enemies of their animal because they can't breathe, they can't move air," he said, noting that humidity can be even more dangerous than high temperatures.
Austin recommends providing plenty of fresh water, shade and moving air for pets that spend time outdoors. Fans, misters and tarps over kennels can help reduce heat exposure.
He also advises owners to avoid walking dogs during the hottest part of the day.
"Pavement is usually 40 to 60 degrees hotter than the air temperature," Austin said. "It'll burn their feet if they're not calloused and not used to walking."
Instead, he recommends taking walks early in the morning or after sunset when sidewalks and pavement have cooled.
As temperatures and humidity increase, Austin said pet owners should also shorten outdoor time when necessary.
"You just have to think and change based on what's happening to make it safe for your pet," he said.