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Forget about witches and zombies; a seemingly innocuous bag of candy can be one of the scariest things that enters a dog parent’s home on Halloween.

Calls to the Pet Poison Hotline increase twelve percent during the week of Halloween, making it the center’s busiest time of the year.

We all know that chocolate can be deadly to dogs, and other ingredients in candy, such as high amounts of sugar and fat, can also cause severe issues for our pups’ health. If a candy is sugar-free, it may contain a sugar substitute called xylitol, which is extremely toxic and deadly to dogs, even in small amounts.

So what do you do if you find Fido with crinkled, half chewed chocolate wrappers strewn in his wake? Here’s what you should do if your dog eats Halloween candy.

Find Out What Kind Of Candy And How Much Your Dog Ate

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This may seem like a difficult task, given all of the torn up wrappers. However, finding out what your dog ate and how much can help determine what care your pooch needs. Different chocolates have different levels of theobromine, the chemical in chocolate that is toxic to dogs.

Baking chocolate is the worst for dogs, clocking in at roughly 450 milligrams per ounce, followed by dark chocolate at 160 mg/oz; milk chocolate at 64 mg/oz; and white chocolate at 1 mg/oz.

If your dog consumed close to or more than 20 mg of theobromine per pound of body weight, they are in the poison danger zone. The equation looks like this:

(Amount of chocolate x amount of theobromine for type of chocolate) / weight of dog = toxicity level

So for example, the equation for a 30 pound dog who eats 8 ounces of milk chocolate is:

(8 oz of chocolate x 64 mg per oz. of theobromine) / 30 lbs. of body weight = 17.1 mg per lb. (a dangerously close level to toxicity)

If you’ve calculated that your dog is close to this level, get them to the emergency vet as soon as possible. If your dog is on the lower end — say ten and under — keep a close eye on them for further symptoms.

Even if they just consume a little bit of chocolate, contact your vet to make sure you’re taking the correct steps for your particular dog given their needs.

Know The Symptoms

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Not to add more spookiness to this story, but your dog may eat some chocolate or other candies out of your sight, and you may not be able to calculate their toxicity level.

Knowing the signs of chocolate or other poisoning in your dog will help you and your vet determine what the best course of action is.

Signs of chocolate ingestion and possibly toxicity include:

• vomiting
• panting
• diarrhea
• agitation
• increased thirst
• in severe cases, seizures

Just Because They Didn’t Eat Chocolate Doesn’t Mean They’re In The Clear

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Dogs are indiscriminate when it comes to what type of candy they want to get their noses into.

Large binge-eating sessions of foods high in fat and sugar can lead to pancreatitis in dogs. This is an incredibly painful experience for your pup and can lead to even more complications, such as kidney failure or other organ damage.

Unfortunately, the more severe symptoms of pancreatitis may not show for two to four days after the candy binge.

Keep your eyes peeled for abdominal pain that comes along with a gentle belly rub, vomiting, diarrhea, and a severely decreased appetite if you think Fido has gotten into something super sugary, and contact your vet.

The Best Measure Is Preventative

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It may be terrifying to think that a little bit of candy can do this much damage to your beloved dog, but it’s reassuring that, most of the time, this can be avoided.

If you’re handing out Halloween candy, keep the bowl up in a high spot where your pup cannot reach it or knock it down. If you have children who are trick-or-treating, be sure to explain to them the seriousness of not giving your dog any candy and keeping it out of the dog’s reach.

Also keep your trash on lock so your pooch can’t dig into a bunch of wrappers, which can also cause severe indigestion.

On days with high candy traffic, be sure to give your pup lots of exercise and a nice meal so they’ll be content instead of curiously sniffing around for some eats. Prevention is key.

As with any dog medical question or potential emergency, be sure to contact your vet with any pet specific questions you may have. Look up the nearest emergency vet in your area and have their number on hand, not only for candy overindulgence, but for any other emergencies that could possibly emerge in the future.

Has your pup ever gotten into the Halloween candy? What did you do? Let us know in the comments below!

The post What To Do If Your Dog Eats Halloween Candy appeared first on Dog Family Helper.

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September marks the beginning of Responsible Dog Ownership Month! While we certainly all like to believe that we’re responsible pet parents, the truth of the matter is that we all make mistakes. We are human, after all.

Unfortunately, those mistakes can often hinder your relationship with your best friend or, worse, put them in danger!

Since we want to make sure that you and your pets have the happiest, healthiest relationship possible, here are a few tips on how to be the best dog parent you can possibly be!

1. Stay Up To Date On Vaccinations

This is easily one of the most important parts of responsible dog parenting. Vaccines will protect your dog from a plethora of environmental strains of diseases that can often prove fatal to canines.

Be sure to check with your veterinarian to ensure that your dog has all of the vaccinations required, as they can vary from state to state and even county to county.

You can also talk to your vet about a titer test for your dog to see when vaccines are actually necessary.

2. Dog Proof Your House

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Just like with kids, it’s vital to make sure that your dog can’t get into anything that could potentially harm them.

This includes keeping all chemicals and cleaners locked up and out of reach, keeping the trash can closed, and making sure any and all small items cannot be eaten or swallowed.

Some dogs may be less inclined to seek these items out than others depending on how curious of a canine you have, but it never hurts to err on the side of caution, just in case.

All it takes is for a usually lazy hound to become curious enough to investigate and ingest something that sends them to the vet.

3. Exercise

Even if you don’t have a very active dog, exercise is still very important. Whether this comes in the form of walks, play, or both, exercise keeps your dog both physically and mentally fit.

Preventing obesity in your dog will also ensure they live a longer life, and who doesn’t want that?

It’s also a wonderful time to bond with your dog while burning a few extra calories, too!

4. Make Sure They’re Eating Healthy

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Diet is equally as important as exercise, if not more so, and with all of the information out there on dog food, there’s almost no excuse to be careless with your dog’s dietary habits.

No one is saying you have to buy the most expensive food or even make your own, but it’s imperative that you make sure your dog is getting all of their nutrients.

Simple veggies from the grocery store make a great supplement — broccoli, green beans, spinach, etc. — and they cost almost nothing compared to processed treats. Adding a fresh egg to your pup’s food now and then may do wonders.

Your pet’s life depends on making sure they always get the food that’s best for them. Talk to your veterinarian about formulating an appropriate diet that meets your dog’s needs.

5. Maintain Your Dog’s Hygiene

Dogs may not love bath time, but sometimes you don’t have a choice. Baths, nail clippings, and especially dental hygiene are very important to ensure your dog is living their best life.

Dental hygiene is particularly important, as dental disease is one of the most common canine afflictions. It can and has been known to be a contributor to other pet illnesses.

It may not be the most glamours aspect of being a pet parent, but that doesn’t make it any less crucial to your dog’s well being.

6. Train Your Dog

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Dogs are pack animals and social by nature, but that doesn’t mean they always know the best way to behave.

Training your dog is an extremely important factor in keeping both you and your dog safe and happy, as it ensures that you can communicate easily and without interference from outside sources. It also helps them know how to better behave around strangers, be they humans or other animals.

Training can keep your pooch mentally and physically stimulated, which reduces boredom, anxiety, and unwanted behaviors in the home. So train your pup!

We all do the best we can as pet parents. Responsible dog parenting is something we can all work on to better the lives of our pups, especially during Responsible Dog Ownership Month.

Are you going to take steps to be a better human for your dog in September? What else can dog parents do to make their pooches’ lives better? Let us know in the comments below!

Related Articles:

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No matter where you stand when it comes to the gun control debate, we can all agree that there should never be a situation where a dog could accidentally discharge a firearm.

Most responsible gun owners know this and would never leave a loaded weapon with the safety off in an area where their beloved dogs might hurt themselves or someone around them.

However, even responsible gun owners can have a lapse in judgment or shift their attention away for a moment, as was the case in some of the true stories below.

If you have a gun in your home or if you like to bring your dog along with you when you hunt, take these accidents as a reminder that you absolutely cannot afford to be distracted when your firearm is ready for use, especially when your dog is around.

Here are nine true stories that prove you should never leave a loaded gun with the safety off where a dog can reach.

1. The Pizza Guy

A pizza delivery guy in Ohio named Ryan Brill was dropping an order off at the residence of a man named Anthony Wulf.

When Wulf heard the knock at the door, he went to set his gun on a table. That’s when Wulf’s dog ran to the door and somehow knocked the gun to the floor. The weapon fired and hit Brill in the leg.

Luckily, the injury was not life threatening. However, Brill went to the hospital and had to use crutches for three weeks.

Why have a gun loaded with the safety off to answer the door for a pizza, especially when you know an excited dog will be running around? Why not put the gun up higher where there’s no risk of your dog knocking it over?

This accident could have been prevented with even an ounce of common sense.

2. Propped Up In The Wrong Place

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Even gun owners with training and years of experience can sometimes forget the importance of basic gun safety, and the results can be deadly. This was the case in Russia where Sergei Terekhov, a 64-year-old experienced hunter who had a firearm license and was completely sober made a fatal mistake.

He propped his loaded shotgun up against his knee while he was sitting near his truck. One of his hunting dogs got excited, jumped out of the truck, and accidentally pulled the trigger of the gun, which sent a shot into Terekhov’s abdomen. It was a fatal injury.

You should never point the barrel of a loaded gun at yourself or someone else, but you especially shouldn’t do it when an excited dog is nearby.

3. Trigger Pulls The Trigger

A hunter in Indiana named Allie Carter was out hunting with her dog, coincidentally named Trigger. She made the mistake of laying her 12-gauge shotgun on the ground while it was loaded and the safety was off.

Trigger the chocolate Labrador chose that moment to step on the trigger, which sent a blast into Carter’s foot. Luckily, Carter only suffered minor foot injuries.

Of course, the whole accident could have been prevented if she hadn’t left her loaded weapon where her dog could step on it.

4. Shotgun On The Ground

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Almost the exact same thing happened to a hunter in Iowa named William Rancourt. He was out hunting with a few friends when one of the hunters left his loaded shotgun on the ground. One of the hunting dogs stepped on the gun, unloading a blast of bird-shot pellets into Rancourt’s back.

Fortunately, there was some distance between the hunter and the weapon. The shot didn’t do as much damage as it could have if he were closer. Rancourt survived the incident and was treated for his injuries at the hospital.

Again, never leave a loaded weapon where a dog, or anyone for that matter, might step on it and accidentally fire it.

5. Shot In The Butt

A man in New Zealand was out hunting with friends when he got into the back seat of a vehicle next to a .22 bolt-action rifle. Everyone in the group assumed that the rifle was not loaded, but when the man’s dog jumped in the car, the pup accidentally hit the trigger and fired the gun.

The bullet went through the seat and hit the man in the left buttock. He had to be airlifted by helicopter to a hospital and survived, though he was in extreme pain.

Sometimes in a group situation, it can be hard to keep track of who has unloaded their gun, and people can get confused. It’s important to be responsible for your own firearm and always double or even triple check to make sure that the weapon cannot be accidentally fired and hurt someone.

6. Shot In The Boat

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Cars and boats can be especially dangerous when it comes to loaded guns and dogs because there isn’t much room to move around without stepping on or bumping into things. This was the case when a young hunter in Minnesota near Federal Dam had his loaded shotgun in his boat.

His dog jumped aboard and accidentally engaged the trigger. The man was shot in his lower right leg and was later taken to the hospital. He was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

There was no reason for his shotgun to be loaded with the safety off when he was not ready to fire, especially on a boat with a dog.

7. Shot In The Butt In The Boat

A man in Utah was hunting with his dog and a friend at the Great Salt Lake. As he was getting out of his boat, he set his 12-gauge shotgun on the bow. While the man was setting up some decoys in the water, his dog jumped up onto the bow and stepped on the gun, causing it to fire birdshot into the man’s butt.

Because the man was about ten feet away from the weapon and was wearing waders, his injuries were not as serious as they could have been, but doctors still had to remove 27 pellets from his posterior.

The man didn’t need his gun loaded and at the ready while he was setting up decoys. He could have easily loaded it and switched off the safety when he was ready to hunt instead of leaving it around where it could hurt somebody.

8. Only One Hand To Pet With

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Sometimes even your hands aren’t a safe place for a loaded gun when dogs are around.

A man in France named Rene was hunting with his three dogs when two of them ran after a deer. The third dog was young and new to hunting, and instead of running after the deer, he stayed behind.

At some point, the pup jumped up on his human and pulled the trigger of the shotgun. The blast blew off part of the man’s hand, and it had to be amputated at the hospital later on.

The man didn’t hold the dog responsible. He admitted that he should have had the safety off in the first place. Now he’ll have to manage to pet three dogs with only one hand.

Always have the safety on until you’re ready to fire. Even when you are holding a gun, it may still be within reach of your dog, and accidents happen.

9. Riding Shotgun

A man in Florida named Billy E. Brown was driving to a hunting spot with a friend. His Bulldog, Eli, was in the front seat of the truck between the two men along with the gun. At some point, Eli got excited and bumped the gun, which knocked it over and caused it to fire.

Brown was shot right above the knee and went to the hospital in critical condition. So many things could have been done to prevent this. The gun shouldn’t have been loaded. The safety should have been on. The firearm could have been stored in the back, away from any chance of getting knocked over.

There’s no reason a dog should sit next to a loaded gun that could go off after being bumped.

Have you ever heard of a dog accidentally shooting someone? If you own a gun, how do you make sure your dog never has an accident? Let us know in the comments below!

The post 9 True Stories That Prove You Should Never Leave Guns Where Dogs Can Reach appeared first on Dog Family Helper.

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Hurricane season in the United States usually lasts from June to November, and it’s especially important during this time to prepared for an emergency and possible evacuation with a plan that includes your pets.

If you live in an area where hurricanes are known to hit land or you’re currently in the path of a hurricane, you must take precautions to keep yourself, your family, and your dogs safe. It’s never too early to start preparing, so if you don’t have an emergency plan yet, now is a good time to make one.

Even if you end up not needing to evacuate, it’s better to have a plan and not need it than to need a plan and not have one. Here are a few tips for preparing for a hurricane and evacuating with your dogs.

Stay Informed, Alert, And Ready

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In any natural disaster, it’s very important that you stay up-to-date on the situation and know when to evacuate, if necessary. There are several ways to go about getting notifications when a hurricane is on the way.

It’s best to have more than one means of staying informed in case one method fails. Having information before and during a disaster will help you make decisions about how to keep yourself and your dogs safe.

Here are a few ways to stay updated during a hurricane:

• Know the risks for where you live. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) put together a map showing where storm surges associated with hurricanes are most likely to affect people in the United States. If you live in one of the at-risk areas, you should take extra precautions and definitely have an evacuation plan. You should also keep your eye on the local news so you’re aware of any storms that might be coming and any evacuations that might be necessary.
• Have your phone charged and ready. In today’s age, your phone might be the best device you have for staying informed, communicating, and finding out where you need to go in a disaster. It’s always a good idea to have a charger where you can easily grab it and go. You should also consider buying an external battery in case the power goes out, so you can charge your phone on the go, or if you need some extended battery life.
• Download the FEMA mobile app. This app sends you notifications about natural disasters from the National Weather Service, gives you preparedness tips, and helps locate shelters among other things. Some reviewers say the app sends too many notifications, but it’s better to be too informed than not informed at all.
• The ASPCA mobile app can also help you prepare for a disaster. It can manage your dog’s health records so you have them if you need to leave in a hurry, and it provides you with resources to help you find a lost dog if you get separated.
• You should have a solar-powered or crank radio, just in case your phone dies or you lose it. Set the frequency to a NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR) station. It will help you stay informed, and these stations broadcast 24/7.

Make Preparations For Your Dogs

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Your dogs can’t prepare themselves for a hurricane, so it’s up to you to make sure they’re safe and ready when the storm hits. Preparation goes beyond making sure your dogs aren’t tied up or chained outside during a storm (they shouldn’t be chained up outside without supervision, anyway).

You must prepare your home for your dogs and make sure that you’re ready to go if an evacuation becomes necessary.

Here are some tips for making preparations for your dogs to get through a hurricane:

• Keep your dogs inside before and during the storm. Arrange a place for them to go potty indoors if necessary. You can get puppy pads, faux grass, and cleaning supplies to take care of the mess. If it’s too dangerous for you to be outside, it’s too dangerous for your dogs.
• Update your dogs’ microchips and identification. Make sure they have your current information and an emergency contact phone number. If you lose your dogs, this gives you a much better chance of finding them.
• Get an emergency alert sticker for your front door. Many fire departments offer these stickers. The sticker allows you to list the number of pets that live in your home. If you’re forced to leave your dogs behind for any reason, the sticker will let rescue workers know how many pets to look for.
• Exchange contact information with your neighbor. If you’re not home during an evacuation, make sure you have a neighbor or friend close to where you live who can take your dogs temporarily until you can meet up with them. Discuss this with them before an emergency occurs, and have a few backup neighbors in case they’re not home. You should save their information in your phone, but also have a physical card with their information if your phone dies or you lose it.
• Return the favor. If you’re able to take your neighbor’s pets in a disaster, let them know they can rely on you, too.
• If you’re taking shelter at home, make sure you have enough food and water for two weeks for each animal, as well as any regular medication they’re taking. Those who feed their dogs raw food or any food that requires refrigeration or cooking should be aware that the power may go out for several days, and that food could spoil. Have non-perishable canned food or dry kibble in your emergency supplies. Replace the water in your emergency supplies every two months if you don’t use it. Keep all of these supplies out of any parts of your home that may be subject to flooding.

Plan Where To Go In An Evacuation

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If you must evacuate, you’ll need to have a safe place to go with your family that will also take in your dogs. Your whole family should be aware of where you will go in case you get separated.

Several options might be available, but some might be ruled out if they’re also in an area that must be evacuated or if they don’t accept pets. Many evacuation shelters prohibit animals due to health and safety regulations, so check ahead of time. Do not rely on shelters unless they specifically tell you that animals are allowed.

Have a backup emergency meetup location if your first option isn’t available.

Here are a few places that might be safe for you and your dogs to go if you must evacuate:

• A friend or family member who lives in a safe location is likely to be the best option. Make arrangements with them ahead of time, and make sure that they have room for your dogs if you need to stay there for a while. Choose a few different friends or family members in case one isn’t able to take you in.
• Return the favor. If you’re able to take in dogs during a hurricane or other natural disaster, let friends and family know. Reach out on social media and tell people that you have room. It takes teamwork to keep our dogs safe.
• Find hotels and motels that will allow dogs. Some may be fully booked due to the evacuation, so make sure you have several options. Two websites that let you search specifically for lodgings that allow pets are bringfido.com and expedia.com.
• If you and your family must go to a shelter or location where pets are not allowed, search the area for pet sitters, kennels, vet’s offices, or animal shelters, as sometimes these places make special arrangements for pets in cases of emergencies and natural disasters. Call ahead to make sure they have room.

Pack Your Emergency Kit

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Whether you’re taking shelter at home or need to evacuate, an emergency kit will help you provide for your dogs during a hurricane. This kit should be fairly easy to pack up and go in a hurry if need be. Keep it somewhere that is not subject to flooding.

It will have items specifically for your dogs, so you’ll need to pack a separate kit for you and the humans in your family. You’ll need supplies for several days.

Here are a few things you should pack in your emergency kit for your dogs:

• A first-aid kit for canines. Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with some advice for your dog’s first-aid needs, but you can also click here for some info on what to include in a first-aid kit for pets. Familiarize yourself with pet first aid in case you need to use it.
• The ASPCA recommends packing three to seven days worth of food for each dog.
• Medical records for each dog. Some locations require proof of vaccination before they will allow your dogs to stay. You should keep these on a USB drive for easy storage. Make sure you have recent photos of your dogs, too.
• One to two week’s worth of any of your dogs’ regular medication.
• Cleaning supplies. Paper towels, bags, and anything else you might need.
• Disinfectant or dish soap.
• Seven days worth of water for each dog. Replace every two months if it goes unused.
• A crate, kennel, or carrier for each dog. Bring bedding for them, as well.
• Extra supplies. Leashes, harnesses, toys, collars, food and water bowls, etc. If you have any of your dogs’ old items that you’ve replaced, you can keep the old items in your emergency kit, rather than buying new stuff just for this purpose.

Evacuating With Your Dogs

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If you receive word that you must evacuate, do not wait, even if you don’t see signs of danger right away. Take your dogs and your emergency kit.

In natural disasters, some people are forced to go right away and leave pets behind, so don’t wait until the last minute to get going. Listen to emergency workers and get your family and dogs to safety.

Here are a few tips if you must evacuate with your dogs due to a hurricane:

• If you’re forced to evacuate in a hurry, leave all non-essential possessions behind. Nothing is worth risking your life or the lives of your dogs.
• Keep your dogs on leashes or in carriers at all times. When frightened, dogs often bolt or hide. This will be a scary, stressful situation for them, and you may not have time to chase them down or look for them.
• Try to keep your dogs’ feeding and medication schedules as consistent as possible.
• Stay calm and don’t take risks. Your family should know what to do and where to go. You should also designate a caretaker for your dogs at all times. Don’t assume someone is watching them. Take shifts if you have to, but make sure someone always supervises and cares for them.
• Keep up with the news and emergency notifications. Do not return home until emergency services inform you that it’s safe to do so.

What other tips do you have for keeping your dogs safe during a hurricane? What should people bring for their dogs if they must evacuate? Let us know in the comments below.

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If you see a dog locked in a hot car, you’ll probably want to do something to save that pup. Every year dogs die in hot cars, even though many states have created laws that make it a crime to leave a dog in a hot car.

Before you immediately start smashing windows, there are some things you should know, including what is legal and illegal in your area. Many states have laws protecting those who break into cars to save animals, and other states do not.

You should prepare for when you see a dog in need and know what steps you should take to ensure their safety.

What Does The Law Say About Breaking Into Cars To Save Dogs?

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The following states have laws that grant some level of immunity to civilians who break into hot cars when dogs’ safety is at risk:

• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Florida
• Indiana (requires the person who breaks into a car to pay the owner for the cost of half of the damages, but they’re immune from any other liability)
• Kansas
• Louisiana
• Massachusetts
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Tennessee
• Vermont
• Wisconsin

These states’ laws protect individuals, but usually only if they go through certain steps and follow guidelines before breaking into cars to rescue dogs. So just because your state has these laws doesn’t mean you can go around smashing windows at will without consequences.

Other states only protect law enforcement, animal control officers, humane workers, or certain other government employees who break into hot cars to save dogs. These states include:

• Delaware
• Illinois
• Maine
• Maryland
• Minnesota
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Dakota
• Virginia
• Washington

The states not listed above may not have laws specifically created to grant immunity to those who break into hot cars to save dogs. However, several of them do have broader laws about animal cruelty, neglect, or endangerment that can apply to the situation of a dog in a hot car.

You should familiarize yourself with the local laws in your area and call authorities if you see a dog in danger, no matter where you live.

What Steps Should You Take If You See A Dog In A Hot Car?

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Regardless of where you live, you should make an attempt to contact the owner of the vehicle. If it’s parked in a lot, go into the establishment and talk to the manager or an employee about the situation. They may be able to find the owner of the vehicle and resolve it.

If you can’t find the owner, you’ll need to take further steps to get the dog to safety.

All laws that protect individuals who break into hot cars to save dogs have certain guidelines that must be followed. If you live in a state that grants immunity to civilians, you should familiarize yourself with these requirements.

In general, you must take the following steps to have protection under the law:

• Have a reasonable belief that the dog is in danger of death or great harm.
• Check to see if forced entry is necessary, meaning all doors are locked and windows are shut.
• Call emergency services, including law enforcement or animal control.
• Stay with the animal until law enforcement arrives.
• Use no more force than necessary to break into the car, which means you can’t vandalize or cause more damage than needed to get the dog to safety.

If you live in a state that grants immunity to law enforcement or animal control officers, call 911 any time you see a dog locked in a hot car. They will have legal authority to break into the vehicle.

If you live in a state that has no specific law regarding dogs locked in hot cars, you should still call 911 and follow the instructions of law enforcement officers.

What If The Law Doesn’t Protect You?

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If you live in a state that doesn’t protect people who break into hot cars to save dogs, and you have attempted to contact the owner of the vehicle and law enforcement to no avail, you have to decide if a dog’s life is worth potentially breaking the law and facing the consequences.

Personally, I couldn’t let a dog suffer and die if I could do something about it, and I’d much rather pay damages than allow something terrible to happen.

Ultimately, that is a choice you will have to make on your own. I cannot tell you to break the law. Only you can decide what is right.

How Do You Break A Car Window?

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If you’ve taken all the necessary steps to save the dog from the hot car, and you reach the point where it’s time to break a window, you may have some difficulty shattering the glass. This is because car windows are made of tempered glass that’s meant to withstand blows from blunt objects.

So a bat, a hammer, or even a rock might have trouble shattering a car window.

An easier way to break a car window is to take a spark plug, which can be found under the hood of many cars, and break a piece of porcelain off of it. The sharp point of the porcelain can cause a small fracture in the glass that spreads and shatters the whole window.

Sometimes you simply have to use what is on hand and keep trying. One man in Canada used a large rock to smash a car window and save a dog.

Regardless of what you use, you should break the window farthest from where the dog is. Car windows should shatter in such a way that minimizes the chance of cuts or injury, but a rock or projectile can still cause some damage, and you don’t want to hit the dog.

What Should You Do Next?

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Get the dog somewhere cool and do whatever you can to lower their body temperature. Make sure that they get plenty of water.

If law enforcement still hasn’t arrived, you may need to take the dog to an emergency vet that can help. Leave your contact information on the car or with the employees of the establishment that it’s parked in front of.

Make a report with law enforcement, noting the license plate of the car. Get the information of any potential witnesses who can vouch for the fact that the dog was in immediate danger.

Make sure that the owner is held accountable for their actions and that they know that what they did was dangerous and irresponsible.

Would you break into a car to save a dog’s life? Have you come across a dog locked in a hot car before? Let us know in the comments below!

The post What To Do If You See A Dog In A Hot Car appeared first on Dog Family Helper.

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Going for a walk with your dog is a great way to experience nature, but wild animal encounters can make nature dangerous. It’s important to know how to avoid wild animal attacks while walking your dog and what to do if an attack is unavoidable.

In general, making noise and putting bells on your dog’s collar can alert wild animals to your presence and reduce the risk of confrontation. Carrying a weapon or repellent like bear spray is another way to protect yourself and your dog from animal attacks.

Your approach to a wild animal encounter will vary depending on which animal you come across. Here are a few animals you may encounter when walking your dog and how you should handle the situation.

Raccoons, Opossums, And Other Small Mammals

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Smaller animals might not seem like a huge threat, but they can carry diseases and parasites that can seriously harm your dog. Raccoons in particular can be very nasty, and they will fight tooth and claw with dogs if they feel the need to.

Many of these animals are nocturnal and will be more common during night time walks, though they can be active in the day time.

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These animals are unlikely to attack unless they feel cornered or are protecting their young.

Floodlights or high-powered flashlights can be effective at scaring most nocturnal critters off. Loud noises and human voices also tend to frighten these animals.

Keep your dog on leash, as many dogs have a prey drive and will attack, causing an animal to defend itself. Throwing something like a rock or stick may also frighten small animals away.

Be cautious, though. Make sure the animal has an avenue of escape or they will feel cornered and defend themselves aggressively. If your dog is attacked, use a stick, shovel, rake, or whatever object is on hand to put in between your pup and the animal to break it up.

Take your dog to the vet right away to check for injuries and possible diseases or infections that may have been spread from the animal.

Snakes, Spiders, And Small, Venomous Critters

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Snakes, scorpions, and spiders are fairly common in desert areas, and their bites and stings can be harmful or deadly to your dog.

If you live in an area where these critters are common, it would be a good idea to train your dog specifically not to attack them.

Stay on trails and avoid bushes, tall grass, or rocks that could provide shady areas where these creatures might hide.

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If you encounter one of these venomous animals on your walk, do not make sudden movements. Back away slowly or take a wide circle around it to avoid disturbing the creature.

Keep a firm grip on your dog’s leash and keep them as calm as possible.

If your dog gets bitten or stung, get to a vet quickly.

You can also call the pet poison hotline at 855-764-7661 if you’re in the United States. You may be charged for the call, but if your pet’s life is on the line, it’s worth it.

Bees

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Bees are one of the many reasons to keep your ears open and pay attention while on your walks. The buzzing of a hive can usually be heard before you find yourself encountering a nest of angry insects.

Bees are usually found where you’d expect them, namely near flowers and plants, as well as water sources like pools or bird baths. It’s a good idea to avoid these on your walks.

A normal honeybee is unlikely to sting unless its hive is disturbed, though Africanized bees are more aggressive and tend to nest in places that European bees do not.

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If you hear the sound of buzzing, head in the opposite direction immediately. Avoid making loud noise or letting your dog bark.

Perfume, dark clothing, and jewelry attract bees.

If a swarm attacks you, run and find shelter immediately. Do not swat or crush bees, as they emit a scent that attracts more bees when they are killed. Running into the wind can slow them down and give you and your dog a chance to escape.

Do not jump into water. Africanized bees will wait for you to come up for air and sting you again.

The main thing to focus on is getting indoors and taking shelter. Once inside, remove any stingers that may still be in your skin or your dog’s skin and seek medical attention immediately.

Coyotes

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Coyotes can be found in desert areas, forests, and even urban areas as the cities expand into their natural habitats and provide garbage as a food source.

Coyotes can be especially dangerous for pets left outside in yards without supervision, and they’ve been known to climb fences to attack dogs, especially smaller ones.

The best way to deal with a coyote that’s following you and your dog on a walk is to make a lot of noise. Yelling and shouting tends to frighten them, and they will most likely run off.

Some sources recommend carrying an air horn or other noise-making device for this purpose.

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Coyotes may be more aggressive during breeding season if they feel their territory is threatened. This happens between January and March.

If a coyote does not immediately back down, keep eye contact. Do not run away. Hold a jacket or backpack over your head and make yourself look as big as possible. Slowly back away and move out of the area.

If a coyote seems ready to attack, throw rocks, sticks, or anything on hand at it while yelling. Try to throw dirt or sand at its eyes.

Keep your dog on leash with a firm grip as you move away.

Bears

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If you live in an area where bears are common, you should put bells on your dog’s collar and frequently make noises to avoid surprising animals.

If you do happen to see a bear on your walk, quickly and quietly leave the area without running. Bears can run at 30 miles per hour and will easily catch you.

If the bear has seen you, avoid sudden movements and keep your dog calm as you head in the opposite direction.

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If the bear’s behavior changes, speak in a low, calm voice to let it know you are human and move your arms. Should your encounter be at closer range, stand tall and make yourself look as big as possible while speaking in an assertive tone and backing away.

If the bear moves towards you, wave your arms and make noise. You can try throwing an object on the ground, as the bear may investigate and give you time to get away, but never throw food.

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Should you and your dog actually be attacked, your best chance is to have bear spray at the ready. Spray it at their nose, eyes, and face.

Grizzlies may leave you alone if you play dead, but your dog is unlikely to play along.

If you are attacked by a black bear, fight back and be as loud as possible.

Walking through bear country makes bear spray a necessity, and you should always have it on you if you live in a place where bears are common.

Mountain Lions Or Wild Cats

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Mountain lions can be found in many parts of the United States, and many of those places have hiking trails where you may be walking your dog. Making noise is important in these areas, as most cougars will be scared off rather than face a confrontation.

Bells on your dog’s collar can help, along with you making frequent yells or other loud sounds.

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If you see a wild cat, give it space to retreat. Do not run, and if possible, hold your dog so they do not run. Running can trigger a cat’s instinct to treat you as prey.

Stand tall and make yourself look big by raising your arms or holding a jacket or backpack over your head. Talk loudly and firmly, and do not make eye contact as this can be seen as a challenge.

Back away slowly. If you are attacked, you must fight back with any means necessary. Most sources recommend carrying a weapon in mountain lion country. If you do not have a weapon, use sticks, rocks, or whatever is on hand. Bear spray can also be effective.

An attacking mountain lion has already decided that it will risk injury to eat you or your dog, and fighting back is your best chance at survival.

Alligators

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Alligators are common in wetland areas and often prey on smaller animals like pets for a meal. If you’re walking your dog in an area where alligators are known to live, it’s important that you keep your dog on a short leash and stay at least 25 feet from the edge of any body of water, including ponds, man-made reservoirs, rivers, and lakes.

You should also be wary of paths that go between two water sources, as alligators can be moving over land between these areas.

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Alligator attacks are rare, though in mating season from May to June, they become more aggressive. They are also more likely to attack if they have a nest near by.

If an alligator charges at you or your dog, which is a rare occurrence, run. Alligators mostly hunt with short bursts of speed near the edge of the water.

Having a weapon or pepper spray may help during an alligator attack, but it’s best to avoid the water. If your dog is bitten, see a vet immediately as it is likely to get infected.

Moose

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Moose see dogs as a threat and are often surprised when they bark or chase. Some of them will go out of their way to kick at dogs.

It’s important if you ever see a moose to give them a wide berth and try to keep your dog calm so as not to disturb it. Keep your dog close so they don’t try to approach the moose.

During September and October, bull moose may be more aggressive, as this is mating season, while in spring, the females may be more ready to attack in order to protect their young.

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A moose that approaches you is either looking for a food handout or warning you to back away.

You should move back and try to find anything that you and your dog can duck behind to get out of view. A tree, a car, a building, or anything large enough to keep you out of sight will do.

If a moose charges, run. They usually don’t chase for long. Again, find something to duck behind to get out of sight.

What other dangerous animals do you see during your dog walks? What do you do to avoid conflicts? Let us know in the comments below!

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The post What To Do If You Encounter A Wild Animal While Walking Your Dog appeared first on Dog Family Helper.

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Summer is great for spending more time outside, for both you and your dog. Unfortunately, some uninvited guests will also likely show up to your summer outings.

Citronella is a common deterrent for pests like mosquitoes. But do you need to worry about it negatively affecting your dog?

The short answer is your dog probably shouldn’t come into contact with any citronella product, but it’s a little complicated. Here’s what you should know about dogs and citronella.

What Is Citronella?

Part of the complication surrounding citronella is confusion over what the plant actually is.

Many plants marketed as “citronella plants” only smell like citronella and don’t actually contain citronella oil.

One common copycat is the citronella-scented geranium. Besides having no mosquito-deterring citronella oil in it, as a member of the geranium family, they contain geraniol and linalool, both of which are highly toxic to dogs and could cause gastrointestinal distress.

If your “citronella plant” has fern-like leaves, instead of looking like grass, it is likely a citronella-scented geranium.

A true citronella plant is actually a grass, found in two varities: Cymbopogon nardus (“Ceylon”) or Cymbopogon winterianus (“Java”). Native to Asia, they can grow in most climates as either annuals or perennials, depending on the warmth.

Interestingly, to get the mosquito-deterring effect, the plant has to be crushed to release the oil. However, the plant does naturally deter other garden pests without needing to be crushed, like whiteflies.

Another plant causing copycat confusion is lemongrass. While the two may smell the same, again, the beneficial oil is only in true citronella grass.

Experts seem divided on if this one is dangerous for your dog — the ASPCA says yes, while others say it is harmless or even beneficial. The disparity may again be due to the confusion over the plant varieties, but it may be safest to have your dog avoid eating this one.

Don’t Let Your Dog Eat Or Touch Citronella Plants Or Products

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While citronella products might smell like a tasty lemon treat to you, do not let your dog eat, lick, or get too close to a citronella plant or product.

All three categories of the “citronella confusion” cloud listed above — citronella-scented geraniums; true citronella grass; and lemongrass, potentially — are toxic if your dog eats them.

Citronella-scented geraniums and citronella oil can also cause a rash or skin irritation on your dog.

Many citronella products don’t have much citronella in them. It’s unusual for candles to be even 5 percent citronella oil. However, there’s nothing good for your dog in that candle — the parts that aren’t citronella are not edible, either.

While citronella naturally deters cats, it doesn’t seem to always have the same effect on dogs. Dogs don’t seem particularly attracted to it either, but it does smell lemony. So if you have a curious dog, be sure to keep these products out of reach.

Give It to Us Straight, EPA

You can’t get much more down to brass tacks with research than looking at the US EPA fact sheets.

According to the EPA, “Oil of citronella is a biochemical pesticide which has a non-toxic mode of action.” It even says that in laboratory trials with animals, citronella oil caused minimal or no toxicity, with skin irritation being the biggest concern.

More specifically, where Category III constitutes “slightly toxic” and Category IV constitutes “practically non-toxic,” the EPA rated citronella oil a III to IV for oral toxicity, a IV for skin toxicity, a IV for inhalation toxicity, and a III for eye toxicity.

So in short, citronella oil is only slightly toxic to practically non-toxic for most animals that were tested. Still, why risk it? Even if these products cause only minor toxicity in your dog, it’s easily avoidable by using alternative repellents.

It seems, then, that you’re best off keeping your dog from ingesting citronella oil or any of the citronella plants, true or copycat. Your dog should also not touch citronella plants — again, true or copycat — or direct citronella oil.

However, the research indicates that the fumes from citronella products are not particularly dangerous for your dog, especially in open air outside.

Do you avoid citronella with your dog? What insect repellents do you use instead? We’d love to hear your personal experience in the comments below!

The post Summer Safety: Will Citronella ‘Bug’ Your Dog? appeared first on Dog Family Helper.

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National Pet Fire Safety Day is July 15th, and it’s a great time to go over some safety tips that can prevent fires in the home and keep your dog safe should a fire break out.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says pets are responsible for over 1,000 house fires every year in the United States, and an estimated 40,000 pets die in fires, mostly from smoke inhalation.

Being prepared and following safety tips could save your dog’s life, as well as your own.

How Can Pets Start House Fires?

Fires started by pets are almost always due to pet parents mistakenly leaving their animals in dangerous situations.

You may have heard of the dog a few years ago who accidentally turned on a stove and lit a pizza box on fire as he tried to get a slice of pizza while his humans were in the other room. Luckily, the damage was minimal, and the homeowners stopped the fire in time.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case, and it’s just one example of the kinds of danger dog parents can unwittingly put their pets and themselves in.

Tips To Prevent House Fires Started By Pets

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Take the following steps to protect your home and your dog from accidental fires:

• Use flameless candles that have a light bulb instead of a wick. If you prefer the real thing, never leave pets unattended in the presence of an open flame, whether it’s a candle, fireplace, stove, or any other fire they can reach or accidentally knock over.
• If your dog is tall enough on their hind legs to reach counter height, remove stove knobs when you leave the kitchen, or you can find knob covers that will keep them from turning on the stove accidentally. The NFPA says a stove or cooktop is the number-one cause of fires started by pets.
• Electrical cords can sometimes be seen by your dog as a chew toy. When damaged, they can spark and cause electrocution or a fire. Secure any cords and hide them behind furniture or other obstructions. You may wish to unplug them if you leave cords unattended or spray them with something bitter as a deterrent. Further aversion training may be needed if your dog still tries to chew cords.
• Do not leave your dog on an electric blanket unattended. Dogs can chew on these, exposing the wires, which can cause electrocution or heat up and catch the blanket on fire. Replace any old electric blankets that show wear and tear.
• Use stainless steel or ceramic pet water dishes on your wooden deck. Filtered and heated through glass and water, the sun’s rays can ignite the wood beneath the bowl.
• Check your home for potential hazards such as loose wires, stove knobs, and piles of paper or other rubbish.

Ways To Keep Pets Safe If A Fire Breaks Out

Here are a few ways to keep dogs safe in the event of a fire:

• Keep your dog’s collar on at all times and place leashes near the door so first responders can use them to lead pets to safety. Dogs are often waiting at doors and run out when firefighters come in.
• You may want to confine dogs in rooms or areas near an entry door when you are out of the house so firefighters can find them easily. Pets are more likely to be injured or to die in a fire when they are locked in a kennel or room away from an exit.
• If you live in a fire-prone area or are concerned about a fire potentially starting, consider installing monitored smoke detectors so firefighters will be notified of and can respond to a fire even if you’re not home.
• Note where your pets like to nap or hide in case you must evacuate your home quickly.
• Have an emergency plan and practice routes of escape with your dog. Include all members of the family in this plan. Make sure they know what to do and where to go.
• Make an emergency kit that you can easily grab on the way out. Pack a leash, medication, and any immediate needs your dog might have for the next few days.
• Alert firefighters to the presence of pets with window stickers that display the number and types of pets inside, and make sure the stickers are up to date. The presence of this sticker reminds firefighters to spend a little more time searching the house for pets. Free stickers are available at local volunteer firehouses nationwide on July 15 and from the ASPCA.

Be Careful Outside Of The House, Too

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Dogs may also be in danger of fires outside the home. Campfires and cookouts are popular during the summer months, and dogs are often with their families having fun at these events.

You can find summer barbecue safety tips here to keep your pup safe around the grill, fireworks, and food.

What other ways do you keep your dog safe from fires? What do you include in your emergency plan to get your dog to safety quickly? Let us know in the comments below!

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Anyone who’s watched a flash flood wash away a house in minutes knows the destructive power of these natural disasters. Flooding can be a very frightening situation for people and their dogs, but there are thankfully many ways to prepare for this weather event.

The best thing dog parents can do for their pets in the event of a flood is to have a plan and follow it safely. Dogs look to their caregivers for guidance and reassurance, especially when something goes wrong.

Understanding what to do before, during, and after a disaster with your dog may help you protect your pets and give everyone in your home a better chance at safety.

Before The Flood

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People who live in areas where flooding is fairly common need to prepare for floods each year. Just because it doesn’t always happen is no indicator that it will not happen at any given time.

Taking the opportunity to confirm that you’re protecting your home and pets gives you the best chance to keep everyone safe. Planning deliberately and avoiding procrastination is often the most effective method to avoid damage or heartache during a disaster.

There are many different types of floods, and the way that they progress may be quite different from one experience to the next.

Some pet parents may recount tales of a flash flood that arrived in minutes and receded relatively quickly. Others might talk about rains that rose to a foot deep but remained for days on end.

In all cases, households need to have a plan to take quick action. Some storms produce rainfall that turns into a wall of water many feet high.

The National Weather Service notes that it only takes 6″ of water to sweep a person off their feet, and 24″ to move a car. People must remember the danger of losing control or drowning in such waters, particularly when they have pets.

Make A Flood Preparation Plan

A flood preparation plan with dogs should include the following:

• Be ready to put dogs on a leash or in a carrier
• Designate a safe area (with a backup location) and go there before a flood hits
• Stock the safest room with food, water, and gear for residents and pets
• Keep records about dogs in a place where they’re easy to grab quickly
• Turn on an alert system like the NOAA radio station to gather information about the flood’s progress

Periodically, dog parents may need to go through the routine with their dogs. This will help to establish a habit that decreases stress when a flood happens.

Find A Way To Get Alerts

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In disasters where people may be confined to their homes with their dogs for days, finding information is key for safety. It may look as though the storm has receded or that the situation is getting better when, in fact, it’s getting worse.

Organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration publish alerts and updates about large, destructive events like hurricanes. Local news and government authorities may also pass along details as they get them.

Households should ideally use more than one method to get information. Relying on a smartphone or computer is only useful so long as the battery is charged and the internet service is working.

People may also want to keep a battery-operated radio with their flood-preparation gear to ensure they have multiple ways of assessing the situation.

Protect Your Home

Flood waters can rise quickly and do damage to the house within moments. Homeowners can minimize some of this damage by performing a few home improvement and maintenance tasks regularly:

• Install a sump pump and test it yearly
• Grade the property to allow water to drain away from the house
• Test the sewer backflow preventer and install a better one if needed
• Keep soil around the foundation moist even during dry periods
• Clear gutters and ensure downspouts point away from the home
• Resolve leaks, especially those related to the foundation

Households should keep in mind that flood insurance is usually not provided as part of their regular coverage. As such, flooding from a hurricane or other natural event may not be covered.

During Active Flooding

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When flood waters begin to rise, dog parents may have anywhere from a few minutes to several hours in which to prepare and take action. It is often difficult to predict how much time someone has to make choices.

This underscores the importance of having a flood plan in place and following it in the moment. Keeping security in mind and always proceeding with caution will help you ensure the safety of yourself and your pets.

Find A Safe Place For Pets

In many cases, evacuation is the best approach for people who live in an area that has active flooding. Even if the water is only a few inches deep, it can still pose serious dangers to people and pets, inside or outside the house.

Before flood waters arrive, you should look for places near your home that are located on higher ground. If you consider staying at a nearby hotel, you should confirm that the place will accommodate dogs of your pets’ sizes and breeds.

When households are not under an evacuation order yet, you may want to relocate important equipment away from the basement or main floor of the house. This includes items such as:

• Food for people and pets
• Sealed water containers (to prevent contamination)
• Technological equipment and chargers
• Dog carriers, crates, or beds

This will help to provide a space to wait for more information.

Leave Quickly

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One scary thing about floods is that their status can change with no warning, and each stage has a highly variable time period. The water might come in a large wall that destroys almost everything in its path, or an inch at a time.

The only reliable thing that people can predict is that water rolls downhill.

Staying at home can seem like a better idea prior to an evacuation order, simply because it feels more familiar to dogs. However, staying put for longer may not be the best approach.

People who are counting on staying at a hotel or with family and friends during a flood may lose that opportunity as the waters rise or change course. A pet-friendly hotel might fill up quickly, and the few roads out of town may become blocked with water or traffic.

Instead, households might prefer to get ready and leave for safety at the earliest indication they may need it. You should keep your dogs nearby and ready to go in a moment.

When floods are imminent, it’s best not to tether or lock pets in cages outside. This makes it harder for them to find safety if they need to do it on their own.

When Evacuation Is Not Possible

Some households cannot evacuate from their homes with their pets. They may be unable to leave the area, or in a situation where the flood waters rose so quickly they cannot leave the home.

In these cases, the best thing to do is to unplug appliances and stay at the house, above the water. Some people go to their attic because it’s the highest point, but this can be extremely dangerous.

If you cannot stay on the main level of your home and cannot get away from the property safely, you should go to the roof.

You should avoid trying to cross a flood by swimming with your dogs or using your car. These waters are very strong and may have a current that pulls people and pets under water.

Even large, heavy cars can float or be swept away by water that’s deep enough. If you cannot drive or walk on relatively dry land, you may need to stay at home until rescue vehicles arrive.

After The Flood Has Passed

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Like many other natural disasters, the effects of a flood can last for weeks or months after the water drains away.

In the first few days after a flood, dog parents should watch carefully for hazards that may injure themselves or their dogs. Keeping everyone in a safe place until authorities can declare a home safe for occupation and asking for support quickly can make a big difference in recovery.

Remain Safe

One of the biggest risks that people take in the aftermath of a serious weather event is to leave a place of safety to scope out the damage.

If people are waiting for a rescue crew to retrieve them from the top of the roof, leaving the area as soon as possible makes sense.

Dog parents who already evacuated to a location that’s not flooded must stay put until local or national weather experts say that the threat has passed. They should continue to present a controlled demeanor to help their dogs remain calm.

People must balance their ability to take control with their need to protect themselves. This may mean paying for a few extra days at a hotel or not getting an opportunity to look at the house quite yet.

This can help avoid overwhelming local services that are already stressed by the disaster and help people keep themselves and their dogs in good health.

Look For Hazards

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In a disaster area, all bets are off. When emergency personnel are stretched too thin, there may be active hazards on the ground for hours or even days.

Dog parents should assume that every foot of ground near their houses may present certain dangers. For example, downed power lines near a flood can be a common source of electrocution.

Flood waters are usually unsafe for drinking or submersion. Dogs often know how to swim, but the current and the contents of the water are unpredictable and possibly dangerous. The water may contain toxic substances or wild animals.

People and their dogs should not drink water or eat food that becomes submerged in the flood. Don’t forget that areas like basements can become especially dangerous after a flood, and any damage will need to be repaired as soon as possible.

Standing water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, which may cause health problems like heartworm in dogs. Exposed wires or appliances that have been soaked may shock those who come into contact with them.

A professional service may be the safest way to deal with major mold, electrical, or structural issues in the home.

Request Assistance

It’s always okay to seek help. The sooner people ask for assistance, the quicker they can receive it.

Lost dogs can often be found through local pet rescue organizations. People may need pictures or records about a dog’s immunizations in order to retrieve them.

A home that sustained significant water damage needs restoration services before it can become a residence again. Water seeps into walls quickly and can breed mold that’s harmful to people and pets.

The structure might collapse, as well. During this time, people must not leave their pets or let them roam around the property.

Homeowners should take a copy of their homeowners insurance policy and confirm that this type of flooding is covered by their plan. Then, they can file a claim and request an insurance adjuster to visit the property and identify the extent of the damage.

They may also look for any possible financial assistance that may be offered to them after a flood.

Seeing flood waters rise can be a scary time for humans and their dogs. Finding a way out early is key, as well as remaining calm and sticking to a plan. By following this advice, pet parents can provide additional protection for their dogs and their homes.

Do you have any other tips for preparing for a flood and keeping your dog safe? Have you ever had to get away from a disaster with your pets? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Flood Preparedness And Safety Tips For Dog Parents appeared first on Dog Family Helper.

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July 4th — Independence Day — is the most American holiday there is. Fireworks, friends, and food come to mind, and it’s especially a great day to have a dog. They add an element of fun as they run around playing and trying to steal hot dogs while you are hanging with friends and family.

But what’s extremely important for dog parents on July 4th is to make sure that our dogs have updated tags and collars. It should go without saying that your dog needs a collar and tags, but it’s especially important this holiday because July 5th is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters.

What does that mean for your dog? And why do you need to update their ID for the holiday? Here’s what you should know.

Too Many Dogs Get Lost On The 4th Of July

Many dogs are very afraid of the loud noises of fireworks. If your dog has anxiety during thunderstorms, then it’s almost guaranteed that they’ll feel nervous around the loud noises and flashes of fireworks.

If you have a new dog — one who wasn’t living with you last 4th of July — it’s extremely important to prepare since you don’t know how this new dog will behave or how they’ll react to loud noises.

A dog’s instincts usually tell them to run away from loud noises like fireworks. Even a dog who’s in a yard might be so scared that they jump a high fence or digs a hole under the fence to get out and run in fear.

This is why the day after Independence Day, July 5th, is so busy at animal shelters. They get inundated with lost pets who bolted out of fear during the previous night’s celebrations. If, God forbid, this happens to you, at least you’ll have a better chance of your dog returning to you.

It’s imperative you take all safety measures to make sure you don’t lose your dog, and it may be best to just put puppy inside where they’re safe — or even inside a nice, secure crate for the few hours that fireworks will be their loudest.

How Can You Update Your Dog’s Identification?

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Check your dog’s current tags and make sure all the information is still correct. If your address or phone number has changed or if the tags have worn down to the point of being unreadable, it’s time to replace them.

You can buy custom tags online or at almost any local pet supply store. It’s worth the few bucks that it’ll run you to help ensure that you and your best friend can live a full life together.

If your pets aren’t microchipped, this is the time to do it. Microchips are fairly cheap and can be put in place by the local animal shelter or your vet’s office.

Microchips are great because your dog can’t slip out of a microchip by accident. It goes wherever they go and almost any vet, shelter, or police department can trace it back to you.

In the event that your dog does go missing, make sure to have a recent photograph of your pooch. That way, you’ll have something to post on social media and in lost dog fliers.

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!

Are your dog’s IDs up to date? How do you keep your dog safe during holidays like the 4th of July? Let us know in the comments below!

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The post Why You Should Make Sure Your Dog Has Updated Tags This 4th Of July appeared first on Dog Family Helper.