The HSUS

Pets can become disoriented and frightened by the noise and commotion associated with parades and fireworks displays. In fact, so many pets are frightened and try to escape the sights and sounds of the Fourth of July that animal shelters around the nation report a dramatic increase in lost pets during the holiday.

1. Keep your pet away from fireworks

Animals are more sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights and strong smells than we are, so Fourth of July festivities may be terrifying. On that holiday—and a few days before and after, when people are likely to set off fireworks—it's best to leave your pets safely indoors, preferably with a radio or TV turned on to dampen jarring noises.

Even pets who are usually kept outdoors should be brought inside. And if you are going to an Independence Day event and cannot leave your pet unattended at home, keep her leashed and under your direct control at all times.

2. Ask your veterinarian for help if your pet is scared by fireworks

There are medications and techniques that might help alleviate your pet's fear and anxiety. Until your vet is available, try our suggestions for helping your dog cope with loud noises such as thunder and fireworks.

3. Protect your pet from the dangers of heat

High temperatures put your pet at risk of heat stroke, which can become deadly very quickly. Keep an eye on your pets and act immediately if you see any signs of heatstroke.

Never leave your pet in a parked car, even if the day doesn’t seem that warm. Even when the temperature outside is a balmy 72 degrees, the temperature inside your car can rocket to a fatal 116 degrees in less than an hour’s time.

On an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a car—even with the windows cracked open—can reach 102 degrees within just 10 minutes. After 30 minutes, the temperature will reach 120 degrees. If you see a pet in a car on a warm day, take immediate steps to help him.

4. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and I.D. tag

All pets, even those kept indoors full-time, should always wear collars with identification tags. Indoor-only pets can become so frightened during fireworks displays that they take desperate measures to escape the noise, including breaking through window or door screens.

A collar and tag will give you a better chance of being reunited with your pet. It’s also a good idea to have your pet microchipped (and make sure to register your current contact information with the chip company).

If your pet does become lost, contact your local animal control and surrounding shelters immediately and follow the rest of The Humane Society of the United States’ advice for finding your pet.

If you find a lost pet, either take her to the address on her tag or bring her to the local animal shelter so she can be reunited with her family.