Keep your pet safe this Fourth of July

This weekend, the United States of America will celebrate its 250th anniversary. You might be looking forward to celebrating with an awe-inspiring fireworks display, but for pets, the loud booms and flashing flares might be anything but magical.

If your pet is spooked by crowds or loud noises—or if this is your first Independence Day together and you don’t know yet how they’ll react—consider implementing these tips to help them have a safe and happy holiday.

Going to a barbecue, parade or festival? Leave your pet at home.

It can be tempting to bring your pet with you on a nice day, but many animals startle easily in large crowds and unfamiliar settings. Not to mention, it’s easy to overheat this time of year! Consider letting your pet skip the outdoor festivities.

If you do need to bring your pet, make sure they are secure on their leash or in a carrier, and monitor them for signs of heat exhaustion. Bring plenty of water for them, and plan to give them frequent breaks in a shady spot. Never leave your pet unattended in a hot car.

Additionally, keep a close eye on your pet around hot barbecues or firepits, as well as citronella candles, insect coils or tiki torch oil products. Do not feed, or allow anyone else to feed, human food scraps to your pet.

Mitigate firework noise.

If you live near the site of a municipal fireworks show, or if your neighbors will be lighting fireworks, you can help reduce the noise in your home with calming music or white noise. Keep your pet in a safe room with no exits, because some pets will run away when spooked. If you will have guests coming and going, consider securing your pet in a kennel, carrier, or interior room to prevent them from escaping. Do not leave your pet in your yard during fireworks, even if it is fenced.

You can create a calming environment during a fireworks show by giving your pets special treats or enrichment toys to distract them, making sure they have access to familiar scents and hiding spots, or using anxiety medication if recommended by your veterinarian.

Pets and explosives don’t mix.

If you or your neighbors are lighting personal fireworks, keep your pet inside. Never leave fireworks, sparklers, glow sticks, matches or lighter fluid unattended where your curious pet can play with or chew on them. When you are finished with your fireworks, make sure the area is thoroughly cleaned and all debris properly disposed of before allowing your pet to access the area.