Celebrate 4th of July With Your Pet in Columbus Ohio

Fireworks, friends, and fanfare, oh my! The 4th of July is a thrilling day, and it’s often overwhelming for the furriest members of the family. Here at All Critters Veterinary Hospital, we like to make the holiday fun for everyone—Fido and Kitty included. And luckily for pet parents in this part of Ohio, Columbus is one of the pet-friendliest cities in America. 

Here are our tips for celebrating the 4th of July with your pet here in the Columbus area. 

How to Celebrate A Pet-Friendly 4th of July in Columbus, Ohio

1. Pick Up a Morning Treat at Pistacia Vera

Buy a baked good for you and a pet-safe treat for Fido and relax on the patio at Pistacia Vera. You and your pup can enjoy people-watching and gazing at the quaint brick buildings of the Historic German Village. 

2. Hike the Highbanks Metro Park

Grab a leash and potty bags and head over to the Highbanks Metro Park for a celebratory hike on the Overlook Trail. The path winds along the Olentangy State Scenic River, a perfect place for Fido to cool off on a muggy July day. 

3. Meet Up with Friends at Godown Dog Park

Reward your pup with leash-free play at Godown Dog Park, a Columbus favorite. The leafy trees offer plenty of shade for you and a friend to chat while your pups romp together on the turf. With a section for small dogs and another for large dogs, there’s plenty of space for everyone. Just make sure your dog’s vaccines are up-to-date before you go. 

4. Grab Lunch at Hofbrauhaus Columbus 

All dogs are welcome at Hofbrauhaus Columbus, where you can order Bavarian-style food and beer to enjoy on an outdoor patio. Furry friends will receive fresh water and treats. Invite a friend to make the afternoon even better!

5. Prep for Your 4th of July Party

Whether you’re heading out for a night of fun or staying home with a group of pals, make sure your pet is ready for the festivities. If your pup or kitty tends to run away when fireworks are fizzing in the sky, prepare a crate with special treats and comfort items. Visit your local pet store to create updated ID tags (if needed) and attach them to your pet’s collar. Pick up a festive new toy for your pet while you’re there. 

Dozens of dogs and cats run away every year during Independence Day festivities. Make sure your pet has the tools to cope with this overly exciting holiday!

6. Snuggle Up on the Couch with a Fur-bulous Film

Shower your furry friend with attention before you head out for the night—or before your guests begin to arrive. He’ll probably be completely worn out after your day of fun together. Maybe even too exhausted to notice the fireworks zapping through the air! 

For more tips on how to help pets cope with fireworks and other loud sounds, reach out to the team at All Critters Veterinary Hospital. Some pets react more strongly to fireworks than others and may need anti-anxiety medication to help stay calm. 

We wish you and your pawsome pals a very happy 4th of July!