The Fourth of July is the busiest day of the year for pet-related emergencies, with veterinary clinics often seeing more than twice their usual number of cases. The combination of extreme heat and fireworks creates a perfect storm for danger. Many well-meaning pet owners bring their dogs to firework displays or cookouts, thinking they’ll enjoy the celebration, but the loud noises can be overwhelming, causing panic and prompting pets to run off and become lost in an unfamiliar place.
1. Keep pets indoors at all times and provide a safe space where your pet can retreat throughout the holiday weekend. Even obedient pets can get startled and react out of panic, so keep pets inside and provide a quiet, comfortable space where they can retreat. If your pet does end up running off, take action immediately.
2. Make sure your pet is wearing a current ID tag and that their microchip information is up to date. The easier it is to identify your pet, the better.
3. Have a current photo of your pet on hand. In case your pet does manage to get loose, having a recent photo will allow you to get the word out quickly.
4. Refill anti-anxiety medications ahead of time. Clinics are not always able to refill your pet’s medication at the last minute, so plan ahead. If you don’t yet have prescribed medication but your pet has anxiety issues, call your veterinarian.
5. Use other calming products such as a calming diffuser for cats or an anti-anxiety shirt for dogs. These helpful tools can safely reduce anxiety and are easy to find at most pet stores. You can also play some calming music to help mask the sounds of fireworks.
6. Have treats or a new toy on hand to help distract your pet throughout the holiday. Keeping treats on hand will distract your pet from the human food, and toys will keep your pet’s mind engaged. You can also prepare for the night by providing lots of play and exercise throughout the day to work off extra energy and help relax your pet.
7. Never light fireworks around your pets. Lighting fireworks around your pet is not only dangerous, but it could cause your pet to panic and inflict unintentional self-injury. 
Last Updated: June 25, 2025 by vbspcaadmin
7 Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe This Fourth of July
The Fourth of July is the busiest day of the year for pet-related emergencies, with veterinary clinics often seeing more than twice their usual number of cases. The combination of extreme heat and fireworks creates a perfect storm for danger. Many well-meaning pet owners bring their dogs to firework displays or cookouts, thinking they’ll enjoy the celebration, but the loud noises can be overwhelming, causing panic and prompting pets to run off and become lost in an unfamiliar place.
1. Keep pets indoors at all times and provide a safe space where your pet can retreat throughout the holiday weekend. Even obedient pets can get startled and react out of panic, so keep pets inside and provide a quiet, comfortable space where they can retreat. If your pet does end up running off, take action immediately.
2. Make sure your pet is wearing a current ID tag and that their microchip information is up to date. The easier it is to identify your pet, the better.
3. Have a current photo of your pet on hand. In case your pet does manage to get loose, having a recent photo will allow you to get the word out quickly.
4. Refill anti-anxiety medications ahead of time. Clinics are not always able to refill your pet’s medication at the last minute, so plan ahead. If you don’t yet have prescribed medication but your pet has anxiety issues, call your veterinarian.
5. Use other calming products such as a calming diffuser for cats or an anti-anxiety shirt for dogs. These helpful tools can safely reduce anxiety and are easy to find at most pet stores. You can also play some calming music to help mask the sounds of fireworks.
6. Have treats or a new toy on hand to help distract your pet throughout the holiday. Keeping treats on hand will distract your pet from the human food, and toys will keep your pet’s mind engaged. You can also prepare for the night by providing lots of play and exercise throughout the day to work off extra energy and help relax your pet.
7. Never light fireworks around your pets. Lighting fireworks around your pet is not only dangerous, but it could cause your pet to panic and inflict unintentional self-injury.
Category: VBSPCA News
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