Without a doubt, the Fourth of July is the highlight of the summer for many people as we celebrate our nation’s birthday. Who doesn’t love a good barbeque topped off by a fireworks display?

Your dog. In fact, the American Humane Association reports that July 5 is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters. Why? Because many dogs flee in panic and end up getting lost or injured.

Many dogs do not like loud noises and the bright lights of fireworks that go along with this celebration. To keep your pets calm, here are some tips from Help’EmUp:

Indoors

• If at all possible, keep your dog indoors to keep them from trying to get out of your yard or break their restraints. If you can’t bring them inside, cover their outdoor crate or kennel with a blanket to offer some protection from the burst of bright lights and loud bangs.
• If you are going to a fireworks display, leave your dog at home where he’ll be safe and comfortable. Put on some music or the TV to drown out the sound of the fireworks.
• Some dogs become destructive when they are scared. If you are leaving them indoors, remove any items your dog could destroy or that will hurt him.
• Keep your windows and curtain closed to reduce the bright lights and flashes.
• Make sure your dog has the proper identification in case he makes a break for it!
• If you are going to be gone, consider hiring a pet sitter to keep your dog calm and distracted.
• Keep fireworks away from your dog. Some fireworks contain potentially toxic substances such as arsenic, potassium nitrate, and other heavy metals.
• Keep all lighter fluid and matches away from your pet. According to the ASPCA, matches contain chlorates that if swallowed can cause your pet difficulty in breathing, damage blood cells or even cause kidney disease. If exposed to lighter fluid, your pet may sustain skin irritation on contact, respiratory problems if inhaled, andgastric problems if ingested.

Outdoors at a Display

• If you are taking your dog to a fireworks display, do not put “people” insect repellent on him as the DEET may be toxic. Also, oils, candles, insect coils and other citronella-based repellants can be irritating toxins toyour dog.
• Keep him away from all alcoholic beverages.
• Do not lock him in a car where he could be susceptible to heat stroke.

The safest place for a pet? At home with you not in a noisy, unfamiliar place. Too many people plus loud noises can be a recipe for disaster! Your dog will appreciate the security of your home a lot more than you’ll enjoy the noise.