Welcome to our weekly 'Ask a Vet from the SF SPCA' feature on 7x7.com. Dr. Jeannine Berger, DVM, DACVB is a board certified veterinary behaviorist who counsels guardians whose pets’ issues are beyond the scope of training. Think of her as a pet shrink at your service. Ask your own questions in the comments. 

As we move into the 4th of July festivities, here are a few tips to keep your pet safe:

BBQs and Food

Remember that cooked bones can splinter in your pet's digestive tract and perforate organs! Onions, garlic, and other roots in the family are poisonous to dogs, so don't let them munch on people food. 

Fireworks

It is very common for pets to freak out during fireworks shows - both inside the house and out. Your dogs are not wowed by the light show, so just leave them home. The booms can scare dogs at outdoor events enough to make them take off running. Give your animals at home access to a safe, quiet place to hide. 

Summer Heat

Cars are hot! We cannot recite this enough. Even in San Francisco, the interior of a car can reach triple digits and scramble your dog's nervous system. If you do have your dog with you, use common sense to prevent your dog from sufferingm – park in the shade with windows down, not just cracked.  In the house, access to cool bathrooms can help keep your pets comfy through the summer heat.

Have a safe and fun Independance Day! If you are looking for a new pet, visit our new adoption center at 2343 Fillmore.