10 tips for a safe Labour Day with pets

Can you believe Labour Day is already here? Perhaps you’re planning a final summer get-together with friends and are preparing to have everyone over for some good food and fun times.  

You may find these tips helpful for enjoying a safe Labour Day with your pets! 

Labour Day Safety Tips 

1. Are you too hot? Your pet is, too: Make sure you’re aware of your companion animal’s comfort level when it’s hot outside. Always have water readily available! Limit time outside during heat waves to short periods and try to go for walks in the early mornings or evenings when the weather is cooler. 

1. Water safety: Never leave your dog unsupervised by any body of water. Even the strongest swimmers can get into trouble.  If you’re going out in a boat, outfit your dog with a canine-specific lifejacket. Read about introducing your dog to water, here. 

1. BBQ safety: Be aware of where your pet is while you’re using the barbecue. If you’re not beside it, close the grill to reduce the risk of injury should your pet try to grab the food off the hot grill. 

1. People food, not pet food: Some people food can be harmful to our pets. Do your research before handing your pet scraps off the table. Visit our blog to learn what foods may be harmful to dogs and cats. It’s also a good idea to remind guests not to share their food with your pets. 

1. Stress levels: If your pet isn’t comfortable with having strangers around, be mindful of how your pet might react. Plan a process for introductions in advance to help your pet feel more at ease. You may also consider setting up a comfortable place for your pet in a separate room where they have toys and lots of water and can escape the commotion of guests. 

1. Open doors: Sometimes doors and gates are accidentally left open. Be careful to make sure all exits are secured so your pets don’t run away if they’re scared. It’s also a good idea to remind guests about closing doors and gates behind them to keep your pets secure. 

1. ID: Verify your pet’s ID is current. Should your pet run away, having an updated ID tag and microchip on your pet will help ensure local animal services can find you to reunite you with your lost pet. 

1. Wildlife encounters: Reduce the risk of wildlife encounters by bringing pet food indoors at night, cleaning barbecue grills after use and keeping doors closed. 

1. Fireworks: Some people set off fireworks on the Labour Day weekend. If there are fireworks around, keep your pets safe with our firework tips. 

1. Keep pets cool: Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. If you can’t take them with you when you leave your car, leave your pet at home where they are safe and comfortable while you run errands. Parked cars can quickly reach deadly temperatures, even on relatively mild days with the car parked in the shade and the windows slightly open. 

Now you’re ready to get out there and enjoy the holiday with your pets!