Bay Meadows

At Bay Meadows, we know your four-legged friends are family, and nothing matters more than keeping them safe and happy—especially during the excitement (and noise!) of the Fourth of July. While the holiday is full of fun for humans, it can be overwhelming for our pet family. A few simple steps can make a big difference for your dog’s comfort and well-being.

One of the best things you can do? Tire them out. Plan a long walk through Bay Meadows 18 acres of open space and neighborhood pathways or pop over to Landing Green Park for an extra game of fetch before the fireworks begin. San Mateo also has several wonderful dog-friendly parks and off-leash play areas nearby. Take a trip to Seal Point Park for waterfront views and wide open space, or visit the popular Laurie Meadows Dog Exercise Area for some off-leash play. Los Prados Park offers shaded strolls perfect for warm summer days. Beresford’s Chanteloup Field offers a three-acre off-leash dog area to blow off some energy, while Central Park features trails and grassy spots where your dog can relax before the evening excitement begins.

A well-exercised pup is more likely to feel relaxed once the sun goes down. You might even consider serving dinner and doing potty time earlier than usual so they’re settled in before things get loud.

Create a cozy retreat inside your home—think of it as a little doggie fort. Gather their favorite blankets, toys, and maybe even an old t-shirt that smells like you. This familiar setup offers a sense of safety when the outside world feels unpredictable. Play calming music or turn on a white noise app to help drown out the pops and booms.

Your presence matters. If possible, stay home with your pup and offer gentle reassurance. Snuggles, treats, or engaging toys like Kongs or puzzles can work wonders for distraction. If your dog has high anxiety, talk to your vet ahead of time about options like a Thundershirt or safe sedatives that can help take the edge off.

Here’s a handy recap to keep your dog safe and happy this Fourth:

• Tire them out with playtime and a long walk
• Plan for an earlier dinner and potty break
• Set up a cozy hideaway with blankets and your scent
• Use Kongs, puzzles, or calming music to distract
• Stay home and comfort them
• Ensure tags are on or pet is microchipped
• Keep human food out of reach
• Talk to your vet about anxiety support if needed

Bay Meadows is proud to be a pet-friendly neighborhood full of thoughtful pet parents. Let’s make this Fourth of July a safe one for all our furry residents!

Conveniently located between San Francisco and Palo Alto in San Mateo, Bay Meadows offers housing within walking distance of Caltrain. Ease of transportation is only one reason you’ll fall in love with Bay Meadows. Smartly-designed, high-quality new homes and the Apartment Collection at Bay Meadows sit among 18 acres of open space, which includes parks, a community garden, public art, ball fields, bocce and basketball courts and a new playground. All this just a walk from Hillsdale Shopping Center, Whole Foods, Clayroom San Mateo, Blue Bottle Coffee, Fieldwork Brewing Company Taproom and Beer Garden, and more. Learn more about what Midurban life offers by joining us on Instagram.