05/21/2026
Memorial Day weekend can be stressful for pets because of cookouts, fireworks, travel, hot weather, and unfamiliar guests. Here are some practical ways to keep them safe and comfortable:
Fireworks & Loud Noise:
Keep pets indoors during fireworks, even if they normally stay outside.
Close windows, blinds, and curtains to reduce flashes and noise.
Play calming music or white noise.
Make sure ID tags and microchip information are current in case they bolt from fear.
If your pet has severe anxiety, talk to your veterinarian ahead of time about calming strategies or medications.
BBQ & Picnic Foods to Avoid:
Many holiday foods are dangerous for pets -
Avoid giving:
onions, garlic, grapes, raisins
chocolate
alcohol
corn cobs
cooked bones
fatty meats and greasy scraps
xylitol-sweetened desserts or gum
Keep trash bags and food platters secured—dogs especially may raid unattended leftovers.
Heat & Hydration:
Never leave pets in a parked car, even briefly.
Provide shade and fresh water at all times.
Walk dogs early morning or evening to avoid hot pavement.
Watch for heatstroke signs:
excessive panting
drooling
vomiting
weakness
collapse
Pool & Water Safety:
Not all dogs can swim naturally.
Supervise pets around pools, lakes, and boats.
Use a pet life jacket for boating.
Rinse chlorine or salt water off fur after swimming.
Guests & Travel:
Give pets a quiet room if gatherings become overwhelming.
Remind guests not to feed table scraps.
Keep doors and gates closed—holiday traffic increases escape risk.
If traveling:
pack food, medications, leash, vaccination records, and comfort items
never let pets ride loose in vehicles
Decorations & Outdoor Hazards:
Secure citronella torches, lighter fluid, matches, skewers, and glow sticks.
Keep bug sprays and sunscreen away unless labeled pet-safe.
Check yards for dropped food, fishing hooks, or fireworks debris after celebrations.
For emergency help in the U.S., the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center and the Pet Poison Helpline both offer 24/7 assistance.
