Memorial Day Pet Safety Tips | VetCheck Bloomington
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer and brings people together for barbecues, road trips, and outdoor fun. While these festivities are enjoyable for families, they can be full of hidden risks for pets. At VetCheck Pet Urgent Care, Bloomington, we often see an uptick in emergency visits during this holiday due to hazards that could have been avoided with a little preparation and awareness. Understanding the most common dangers and how to prevent them can help ensure your pet stays safe and healthy this Memorial Day Weekend.
One of the biggest concerns during Memorial Day celebrations is the traditional backyard barbecue. Grilled meats, fatty foods, skewers, bones, and alcohol may be tempting to your pet, but all pose serious health risks. Dogs and cats can suffer from pancreatitis after eating greasy food or become ill from ingesting onions, garlic, or grapes, all of which are toxic. Skewers and cooked bones can splinter and cause choking, blockages, or intestinal damage. Even seemingly harmless table scraps can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. It’s important to make sure pets are kept away from food preparation and dining areas and that trash is secured to prevent scavenging.
Travel is another major part of the Memorial Day holiday that can become dangerous if pets are not properly cared for. Whether you're driving a few hours away or heading out of state, planning ahead is essential. Pets should always be safely restrained in a crate or with a seatbelt harness while in the car. Leaving your pet unattended in a vehicle, even for a few minutes, can be deadly—temperatures inside can soar quickly, even on mild days. Also, make sure your pet is wearing a collar with ID tags and that their microchip information is current in case they get lost in unfamiliar surroundings.
Crowds and unfamiliar environments can also create stress and anxiety for pets. Loud noises, strangers, and even the scent of other animals can overwhelm them, leading to unpredictable behavior or escape attempts. If you're hosting or attending a gathering, consider setting up a quiet, secure area for your pet where they can retreat and feel safe. Provide plenty of fresh water and be mindful of how hot the pavement or grass might be, as pets can easily burn their paws or overheat in the sun. Watch for signs of heatstroke like excessive panting, drooling, weakness, or vomiting.
Fireworks and sparklers are another common Memorial Day tradition that can pose a serious risk. Even if you're not lighting any yourself, nearby fireworks can cause panic, especially in dogs with noise sensitivities. Keep pets indoors during fireworks displays, close windows to muffle sound, and consider calming aids like anxiety wraps or veterinarian-approved supplements if your pet is especially fearful.
At VetCheck Pet Urgent Care, Bloomington, we encourage pet parents to enjoy the holiday while keeping pet safety in mind. Having a plan in place for food, travel, and gatherings can help you avoid a trip to the emergency vet and make the long weekend enjoyable for everyone—pets included.
If your pet experiences any signs of distress or illness during the holiday, don’t wait. Visit VetCheck Bloomington at 3251 West 3rd Street,Bloomington, IN 47404 or call us at f(812) 302-2232 for prompt, expert care. We’re here for you every day, including holidays. Learn more about us and the services we offer in our website.
