Summertime in Florida means backyard barbecues, beach days, neighborhood celebrations, and spectacular fireworks displays. While these events are often highlights of the season for families, they can be stressful and even dangerous for our pets.
At Animal Emergency Hospital Volusia, Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand, and Animal Emergency Hospital Palm Coast, we see an increase in emergency visits during the summer months related to heat exposure, food ingestion, anxiety, and injuries associated with holiday gatherings and fireworks. Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure your pets stay safe and comfortable while you enjoy the festivities.
Fireworks and Pets: Why They’re a Risk
To us, fireworks are exciting. To our pets, they can be frightening and confusing. The loud booms, flashing lights, and unfamiliar smells can trigger intense fear and anxiety.
Pets frightened by fireworks may:
- Attempt to escape from homes, yards, or leashes
- Hide in unsafe locations
- Injure themselves while trying to flee
- Experience excessive panting, pacing, trembling, or vocalization
- Refuse food or water
In fact, shelters often see a significant increase in lost pets around major summer holidays due to fireworks-related escapes.
How to Help Your Pet During Fireworks
Keep pets indoors. Even pets that normally spend time outside should be brought inside before fireworks begin.
Create a safe space. Set up a quiet room with familiar bedding, toys, and access to water. Closing curtains or blinds can help reduce visual stimulation.
Provide background noise. Turn on a television, fan, or calming music to help mask the sound of fireworks.
Stay calm. Pets often take cues from their owners. Remaining relaxed can help reassure an anxious pet.
Ensure identification is current. Verify that your pet’s collar tags and microchip information are up to date in case they become lost.
Talk to your veterinarian. If your pet has a history of severe anxiety during fireworks, your primary care veterinarian may recommend behavioral strategies or medications to help manage their stress.
BBQ Foods Can Be Dangerous for Pets
Many of the foods commonly found at summer cookouts can cause digestive upset for dogs and cats, or worse.
Foods to Keep Away from Pets:
Cooked bones
- Can splinter and cause choking
- May lead to intestinal blockages or internal injuries
Fatty meats and table scraps
- Can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, or pancreatitis
- Especially risky for dogs
Onions and garlic
- Common ingredients in burgers, marinades, and side dishes
- Toxic to both dogs and cats
Corn cobs
- Frequently cause intestinal obstructions when swallowed
Grapes and raisins
- Can cause kidney damage in dogs
Alcoholic beverages
- Even small amounts can be dangerous for pets
Xylitol-containing foods
- Found in some sugar-free products
- Can cause severe drops in blood sugar and liver damage in dogs
Remind guests not to feed pets from the table, no matter how convincing those puppy-dog eyes may be.
Watch Out for Heat-Related Emergencies
Florida summers are known for their heat and humidity. Even relatively short periods outdoors can put pets at risk for heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Signs of Heatstroke in Pets
- Excessive panting
- Difficulty breathing
- Bright red gums
- Drooling
- Weakness or collapse
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Disorientation
Heatstroke is a medical emergency and can become life-threatening very quickly.
Summer Safety Tips
- Provide constant access to fresh water.
- Ensure pets have access to shade or air-conditioned spaces.
- Avoid exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
- Never leave a pet unattended in a vehicle, even for a few minutes.
- Monitor brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds closely, as they are especially susceptible to overheating.
Keep Party Hazards Out of Reach
Summer gatherings often involve decorations, grilling equipment, and increased foot traffic that can create additional risks for pets.
Be mindful of:
- Hot grills and fire pits
- Citronella candles and tiki torch fuel
- Skewers and toothpicks
- Glow sticks and party decorations
- Open gates or doors that could allow pets to escape
- Trash bags containing food scraps
Consider designating a secure indoor area where your pet can relax away from the activity.
Know When to Seek Emergency Care
If your pet experiences any of the following, seek veterinary attention immediately:
- Difficulty breathing
- Collapse or unresponsiveness
- Signs of heatstroke
- Ingestion of toxic foods or foreign objects
- Severe anxiety resulting in self-injury
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
When emergencies happen, prompt treatment can make a significant difference in your pet’s outcome.
We’re Here When You Need Us
Summer celebrations should be fun for every member of the family, including your pets. By planning ahead and taking a few simple precautions, you can help keep your furry companions safe throughout barbecue season and holiday fireworks events.
If your pet experiences an emergency, we’re here to provide guidance, support, and life-saving care when it matters most. Our emergency teams in Volusia and DeLand are available 24/7, and our Palm Coast location is open evenings, weekends, and holidays. When minutes matter, having a trusted local emergency veterinary hospital nearby can make all the difference.
Have a safe and happy summer! 🐾
Warmest wishes,
Dr. Diane Johnson
Founder, Medical Director