Festivals, Parades, and Gatherings…Oh, My!
Something like lions and tigers and bears, but people and pets and public events, maybe even a Pride gathering! All the places to go this summer and all the people to see. Of course, you and your pet want to be part of it – the gatherings, the events, the parades.
While these events are fun and exciting, sometimes they can be a little overwhelming for man and beast alike. There are ways to make sure your pet is safe and happy while you’re having a good time together.
To Start at the Beginning
You have to start at the beginning, right? To enjoy an event, you have to travel there. It’s important to travel safely with your pet, which includes some of the following precautions:
- Use a harness or other device to safely belt your pet in
- Use that device according to the manufacturer’s instructions
- Use a leash when opening your car’s doors so your pet can’t run away
Safety at an Event
After you’ve arrived, there are a myriad of ways to ensure your pet’s well-being. Some of those include basic, common-sense things like making sure your pet stays hydrated. Water from home or bottled water that your pet is used to drinking is best. Other ways to ensure your pet’s safety are:
- Making sure they’re wearing a collar and tags with your contact information on them
- Making sure all vaccines are current
- Have current pictures of your pet (who doesn’t???) in case you get separated
Aside from these basics, there are more nuanced ways to assure that you and your pet have a great time safely. As a pet parent, you know your pet best. If you begin to see behavior indicating that your pet is stressed, apprehensive, or overwhelmed, it’s time to leave or take them somewhere quiet and calm. Your pet’s behaviors are unique to them, but may include:
- Their tail wagging low, which can indicate insecurity or nervousness
- Tail wagging unusually high, which can indicate that they’re on high alert
- A tucked tail
- Ears in an unusual position for them – either high or low
- Crouching or backing away
- Growling or snapping
- Stiff body posture
Essentially, any change in your pet’s normal behavior should be monitored. They are completely reliant on you, their parent and most beloved friend, to make sure they’re in situations in which they can relax and thrive.
When Your Pet Should Stay Home
There are times when it’s best for your pet to stay home where they’re cool and comfortable. Heat and high humidity can be dangerous for pets and can cause a plethora of problems, including but not limited to, dehydration and heatstroke. Here are some other instances in which you might choose to leave your pet home:
- Fireworks, especially if your pet has noise anxiety
- If you’re unsure about weather conditions, especially potential storms
- If your pet isn’t feeling well
- If the event you want to attend isn’t pet-friendly (check before you go)
Homey Gnome Veterinary ClinicIf you’re in Oakdale, MN, and the surrounding areas, Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic can help your pet should they have too much summer fun. Call 651-202-3388 or email us at [email protected] for compassionate care from a veterinary team who strives to provide a positive client experience while having fun with our jobs.
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