As the Queen's Platinum Jubilee fast approaches, we're sure many of you are looking forward to celebrating alongside your pets! Whilst there's bound to be lots of fun & excitement, it is also important to make sure our furry friends are safe as they join in the festivities. Here are some top tips to help keep your beloved pets safe this Jubilee weekend...
Fireworks
Fireworks are one of the most common causes for stress and anxiety in cats and dogs. Our pets' senses are much more sensitive than ours, which is why loud bangs and bright lights can be scary for our four-legged friends. A good way to prepare is to purchase a pheromone diffuser to help keep your pet calm. Make sure there is a safe space for your cat or dog to retreat to, ideally somewhere dark and as quiet as possible, where they can go and be left alone. Some pets may prefer to seek reassurance, if this is the case then make sure to give them lots of attention and plenty of treats. Keep all of your curtains, windows, doors and pet flaps closed to minimise noise and to stop your pet from running away and getting hurt. There are also a number of animal calming playlists that can be great to put on to disguise the sounds of the fireworks, PDSA have some good ones on their website.
Street Parties
Street parties are lots of fun, but there are a few dangers to be mindful of if you're brining your furry friend along for the action. Large crowds can be overwhelming for pets, so always make sure your pet looks happy and relaxed. If they are showing any signs of distress, be sure to take them somewhere calm, away from the crowds. It's also important to make sure your pet doesn't accidentally get stepped on when there are so many people around. Make sure your pet is visible to others and consider that smaller dogs may prefer to be carried. Make sure that your pet is secure, whether that's in a carrier or on a lead, as they may be more likely to get lost. Ensure their ID tag is up to date with your details just in case they do go missing. Remember to be cautious around roads, even if the road you are on is closed, it's best to stay alert and keep road safety at the forefront of your mind.
Food & Drink
As with any special occasion, there is sure to be lots of delicious food and drink to indulge in! Whilst this is often the best part of any get-together, it's important to make sure your pet doesn't indulge in anything that might hurt them. Human food isn't always good for our pets, so it is very important to do your research before giving your cat or dog any scraps. As a general rule, you should avoid giving your pet anything salty, sugary, spicy, greasy or fatty. If you're unsure whether a food is safe, it is best to avoid giving it to your pet. We recommend indulging your pet with some homemade treats instead.
Weather
The British weather can certainly be unpredictable, but if you're lucky enough to have some sunshine this Jubilee weekend then it's im-paw-tant to protect your pets from heatstroke. Always make sure pets have somewhere in the shade to rest and take plenty of water with you to keep them hydrated. Flat-faced dogs such as pugs particularly struggle to regulate their body temperature, so avoid taking them out in the heat of the day. It's also important to check the pavement isn't too hot before heading with your pooch. If you can't comfortably touch the pavement with the back of your hand for 7 seconds, then it is too hot for your dogs paws. If you think your pet may have heatstroke, place cool towels over them and make sure they have plenty of fresh air and water. Be sure to contact your vet immediately.