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The membership association advises pet owners to consider their pets when celebrating the Fourth of July holiday.

KING, N.C. (June 26, 2019) — Americans are expected to spend nearly $6.8 billion on food alone for this year’s Fourth of July celebrations, according to the National Retail Federation. With preparations for fireworks displays, cookouts and parades underway, Pet Sitters International (PSI) is reminding pet owners to take precautions to keep pets safe.

PSI, the world’s largest educational association for professional pet sitters, advises pet owners that the holiday is not always a festive time for pets.

“With the excitement of the festivities and celebrations, it can be easy to forget that not all traditions are a good fit for pets,” explained PSI President Patti J. Moran.

PSI offers these simple tips to keep pets healthy and happy this Fourth of July:

1. Keep pets inside during celebrations. While many humans love fireworks, they can be terrifying for pets, and a normally quiet neighborhood that becomes busy and loud on the Fourth of July can also cause undue stress to pets. When fireworks are likely to go off in or near your neighborhood—or when loud celebrations are underway—be sure to keep your pet inside in a safe space. Close all doors and windows, and turn on the television or play calming music for your pet.

2. Make sure your pet wears an identification tag. Even if you plan to keep your pet inside over the Fourth of July holiday, make sure your pet is always wearing a tag with your name and current contact information. If your pet somehow escapes the property in a moment of panic or when guests come in and out, a current ID could be vital to ensuring that you and your pet are reunited. You could also consider microchipping your pet.

3. Watch out for unsafe foods and decorations. If you are planning a holiday gathering or party, be sure to keep your pet away from the grill, as well as alcohol and any unsafe foods, and advise guests not to feed your pet. While you may be aware of substances that are bad for your pets—for example, chocolate, xylitol, macadamia nuts, grapes, raisins, onions, avocado and bread dough—your guests may not be.

You should also take special care to keep your pet away from any décor that could cause harm if chewed on or ingested, as well as any used or unused fireworks, which may look tasty to pets due to their shiny or colorful wrappers, and festive items like sparklers and glow sticks.

4. Only use the services of a professional pet sitter. If your Fourth of July plans will keep you away from home, your pet could benefit from the services of a professional pet sitter. Your pet will be happier at home—away from crowds, fireworks and loud noises. PSI advises pet owners to only use the services of professional pet sitters.

“When it comes to finding pet care, don’t prioritize convenience over quality,” said PSI Vice-President Beth Stultz-Hairston. “Just because you can quickly find and book the services of a pet lover with a profile on a pet-sitting or dog-walking app doesn’t mean you are choosing a qualified pet-care provider.”

“You want to be able to enjoy your holiday knowing your pets are in good hands,” Stultz-Hairston added.

Pet owners can visit www.petsit.com/locate to download a free Pet-Sitter Interview Checklist with seven important questions pet owners should ask any potential pet sitter—and to search PSI’s Pet Sitter Locator.

To learn more about PSI, visit www.petsit.com.

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