As Pasadena’s Rose Bowl replaces traditional fireworks with a drone show this July 4th, Nicole Ellis, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer with Rover warns that remaining celebrations – coupled with dangerous summer heat – pose serious risks to local dogs and cats.
With 67% of dogs experiencing fireworks anxiety and temperatures potentially exceeding 94°F, pet owners face a critical safety challenge. “You guys know your dogs best, but I always do recommend staying home just so that we can see how our dogs react and ensure their safety,” Ellis advises.
The Rose Bowl will feature a drone show during the FoodieLand Food Festival, while South Pasadena maintains its traditional fireworks at 9:00 PM at South Pasadena High School Stadium. Yet the dangers remain significant. “It doesn’t take much for dogs to overheat because they do not cool down the same way that we as humans do,” Ellis explains.
Heat presents a grave threat, with pavement temperatures potentially reaching 162°F when air temperatures hit 104°F. Pet owners should watch for heat stroke symptoms, including excessive panting, bright red tongue and gums, heavy drooling, rapid breathing, weakness, stumbling, disorientation, vomiting, and diarrhea.
“Pasadena has so many dog-friendly places, but that doesn’t mean in the middle of July when it’s 110, we need to take them shopping with us,” Ellis cautions. “That’s the time to leave our pets at home.” She emphasizes that “even a few minutes in the car can be extremely dangerous for them.”
Emergency veterinary resources are critical, including VCA TLC Pasadena Veterinary Specialty and Emergency, Animal-AM Emergency Clinic of Pasadena, and ACCESS Pasadena. Most regular veterinary clinics will be closed on July 4th.
Under Pasadena Municipal Code 6.12.010, all fireworks are illegal in the city, with enhanced enforcement planned. Dogs must be leashed (6 feet or shorter) in public spaces, with potential fines up to $500.
As families prepare for July 4th celebrations, Ellis’s core message remains clear: prioritize pet wellbeing over human convenience, especially during extreme weather and stressful events.
