Canada Day Dog Care

Happy Canada Day! We’re guessing that barbeques and celebrations are in store for many of you today, as we celebrate our beautiful country. Just keep your canine companion in mind. This can be a dangerous day for dogs! A Brampton, ON vet offers some advice on this below.

Food

Are you setting out a spread? Fido will probably be quite interested in what’s on that picnic table. You can definitely give your furry friend something special. Just stick to pet-safe foods, like plain, cooked meat, fish, or chicken with no skin, bones, or fat. Don’t give your pup garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; grapes, currants, or raisins; meat on the bone; chocolate; avocado; pitted fruit; caffeine; alcohol; or raw dough or yeast. Ask your vet for more information.

Fireworks

Fireworks are very scary to many pets. Fido doesn’t understand that the lights and noise are a celebration, and can get quite spooked. Take your canine buddy inside before it gets dark, and set him up in a comfy spot with bedding, toys, and a yummy treat. Turning on some background noise, like a TV, will help mask the commotion. If your pooch gets really scared, ask your vet about using pet-calming products, such as treats or sprays. For dogs with severe anxiety or fear responses, consider our veterinary behavior counseling service to help your pet cope better with stressful situations like fireworks displays.

Chemicals

Things like bug spray, citronella oil, and lighter fluid should also be kept out of paws’ reach. Better safe than sorry!

Water

Canada Day can get pretty hot. Make sure Fido always has fresh, clean water. If it’s really hot, he may enjoy having some ice cubes in his bowl. For extra tail wags, give your furry bff some ice cream.

Parasites

Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and other parasites may very well turn up for your celebration. Keep your canine friend up to date on his parasite prevention products. Vaccines are important too, especially the rabies vaccine.

Trash

Be sure to use trashcans that close securely. Fido has been known to go through the garbage in search of leftovers. The trash could contain things like can lids, toothpicks, bones, fat trimmings, skewers, and tin foil, all of which are dangerous to pets.

Precautions

Reports of lost pets often spike at this time of year. Fido should be microchipped and wearing ID tags, just in case. It’s important to be prepared for the possibility of a lost pet, not just during holidays but year-round. To learn more about preventing and handling lost dog situations, check out our article on Missing Mutts Awareness Day, which provides valuable information on this critical topic.

Our Advice on Canada Day Dog Care in 2025

How can owners safely include their dogs in Canada Day activities, such as parades or outdoor gatherings?

To safely include dogs in Canada Day activities like parades or outdoor gatherings, ensure they are comfortable with crowds and noise. Keep dogs on a leash and provide a shaded area to prevent overheating. Bring fresh water and offer ice cubes to keep them hydrated. Avoid feeding dogs human food from gatherings; instead, bring pet-safe treats. Protect them from fireworks by keeping them indoors in a calm environment with soothing background noise. Ensure dogs are up-to-date on parasite prevention and vaccinations. Lastly, ensure they are microchipped and wearing ID tags for safety.

What are some dog-friendly alternatives to traditional Canada Day treats and snacks that owners can prepare for their pets?

For dog-friendly alternatives to traditional Canada Day treats, owners can prepare plain, cooked meat such as chicken, turkey, or fish without any seasoning, skin, or bones. Another great option is making homemade dog biscuits using pet-safe ingredients like peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free), pumpkin puree, and whole wheat flour. Frozen treats made from plain yogurt and fruit, such as blueberries or strawberries, are also a hit. Additionally, offering sliced carrots, apple slices (without seeds), or small pieces of cheese can make for tasty and safe snacks for dogs during the celebrations.

How can owners prevent their dogs from getting lost or running away during Canada Day celebrations?

To prevent dogs from getting lost or running away during Canada Day celebrations, ensure they are always on a secure leash and supervised. Keep them indoors during fireworks and loud events, providing a safe and calm space with familiar items. Make sure dogs are microchipped and wearing updated ID tags with current contact information. Avoid taking dogs to crowded or chaotic environments where they might get scared and bolt. Additionally, reinforcing basic obedience commands such as “stay” and “come” can enhance control and safety during any outdoor activities.

What should owners do if their dog does become lost during Canada Day celebrations?

If a dog becomes lost during Canada Day celebrations, owners should immediately begin searching the area while calling the dog’s name calmly. Notify local animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and animal control agencies about the missing pet. Utilize social media and community groups to spread the word, providing a clear description and a recent photo of the dog. Check popular online lost-and-found pet platforms. Ensure the dog’s microchip information is up-to-date, and contact the microchip company to report the lost pet. Place familiar items like the dog’s bed or favorite toys outside to help guide them home.

How can owners help their dogs acclimate to the noise and excitement of Canada Day celebrations in the days or weeks leading up to the event?

To help dogs acclimate to the noise and excitement of Canada Day celebrations, start by gradually exposing them to similar sounds at a low volume, increasing it slowly over time while providing positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise. Create a safe, quiet space in the home where the dog can retreat during loud events. Use calming aids like anxiety wraps or pheromone diffusers. Regularly practice basic commands to reinforce a sense of security and control. Also, maintain a consistent routine to reduce anxiety and ensure the dog feels secure leading to the celebrations.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your Brampton, ON veterinary clinic, we’re here to help.