This Fourth of July weekend is shaping up to be a beautiful one in West Michigan, and I’m sure many of you are planning to celebrate with family and friends at parties, picnics, parades, barbecues, and fireworks. These family activities with awe and beauty bring joy to many of us, but for your pets, it can be the most terrifying time of the year. “Pets are sensitive to loud noises, bright flashing lights, and strong smells,” says Dr. Steve McBride of Cascade Hospital for Animals. “All of these elements are present around July 4th, during fireworks shows that take place over a number of nights.”

Before you head out to enjoy the day, take a look at our four tips to keep your pets happy and healthy during the July 4th holiday.

It is a beautiful spring morning in West Michigan. You are enjoying your morning coffee watching the birds at the feeder in your backyard, and he shows up. A disheveled looking squirrel disrupting the serenity of the morning. Some may “shoo” him away; however, many others call us asking for advice on how to help the little guy out.

Ticks that starved all winter in West Michigan began to swarm throughout woods in early March during our warm spell in search of hosts. One dog owner in Lowell Township discovered this attached tick on his pet after taking a stroll through his wooded yard last month.