07/02/2026
Fireworks, picnics and other Fourth of July traditions can be great fun for people; but all of the festivities can be frightening and even dangerous for animals.
Whether or not you’re planning your own Independence Day celebration, it’s important to take precautions to keep your pets safe both during and after Fourth of July festivities.
• Make sure the environment is safe. Is your yard secure enough to keep your pet contained?
• Large and noisy events can be stressful. Do not take your pet to parties, firework displays, parades and other gatherings.
• Consider putting your pets in a safe, escape-proof room or crate during parties and fireworks.
• If you’re travelling out of town for the holiday, consider leaving your pets at home with a pet sitter or boarding them in a kennel.
• Make sure your pets – cats and dogs alike – have identification tags with up-to-date information.
• If your pets aren’t already microchipped, talk with your veterinarian about microchipping.
• If your pets are microchipped, make sure your contact information in the microchip registry is up-to-date.
• Take a current photo of all of your pets – just in case they become frightened and run away.
• If your pet has historically been anxious on this holiday, an anxiety vest may work in some cases—if you don’t have one, try a snugly fitting t-shirt