DATE: June 29, 2015
MEDIA CONTACT: Lisa Mendheim
Broward County Animal Care and Adoption
PHONE: 954-359-1010
EMAIL: lmendheim@broward.org
BROWARD COUNTY, FL - The upcoming Fourth of July holiday is marked by all kinds of celebrations, activities and food that can be fun for your family, but stressful or even dangerous for your pets. That's why Broward County Animal Care and Adoption is offering some important tips to ensure that the holiday is also a safe one for your pet.
"One of the most important things you can do for your pets during the Fourth of July celebration is to keep them inside your home, away from firework displays and explosives. Each year pets become lost because they have tried to run away from the loud noise. Most importantly, be sure your pet is wearing its Broward County Rabies Registration Tag and other identification in case it does get frightened and escapes from home," said Lisa Mendheim, Public Education Coordinator with Broward County Animal Care and Adoption.
Fourth of July goodies can also cause serious problems. While you may feel compelled to share a burger, it's important to remember to keep "people food" and alcohol away from your pet. Simple ingredients such as onions, salt, yeast dough, avocados, grapes, raisins, and chocolate can all be potentially toxic to your pet.
The bottom line is to enjoy the celebration of the holiday weekend while ensuring that your pet remains healthy, happy and safe.
Top Five July 4th Safety Tips for Pets:
1. Keep your pet INSIDE the house away from fireworks and loud noises. Do not leave them out in the yard and do not take them to see a fireworks display.
2. Do not give your pet "people food" or alcohol. In addition, keep your pet safely away from hot grills, charcoal and lighter fluid. Sunscreen, insect repellant, citronella candles and oil are also harmful to your pet.
3. Make sure your pet is not kept outside too long in the summer sun and heat. Make sure fresh, cool water is on hand at ALL times.
4. If your pet ingests a poisonous substance, contact your local veterinarian right away or the Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. The center is open 24/7.
5. If your pet is micro-chipped, make sure the chip is registered to a current address and phone number. In addition to the chip, your pet must wear his Broward County Rabies Registration Tag on a secure collar at all times. Not only is the tag required by law, but it's the easiest way to ensure your pet will be reunited with you if it becomes lost. The Rabies Registration Tag is available through Broward County Animal Care, the Humane Society of Broward County, most veterinary clinics and all Pet Supermarket stores located in Broward County. Proof of a current rabies vaccination is required. For more information about Pet Registration Tag suppliers, visit Broward.org/animal and click TAGS and SHOTS.
About Animal Care
Broward County Animal Care and Adoption is dedicated to providing shelter for lost and homeless animals. The agency provides access to hundreds of shelter pets hoping for a new home. Please prevent unwanted animals and have your pet spayed or neutered. For more information about the agency, visit our website, or "like us" on Facebook.com/BrowardPets.