How to Keep Pets Safe During Fourth of July Fireworks Celebrations

There are a few simple precautions pet owners can take to help keep their companion animals safe during Fourth of July fireworks.

Audrey Simons

Published: 7/3/2026, 3:28:24 PM EDT

How to Keep Pets Safe During Fourth of July Fireworks Celebrations — Left: Fireworks explode near the Washington Monument during a 4th of July celebration at the White House on July 4, 2025. (Alex Brandon/Getty Images); Right: Dog sitting on couch. (Audrey Simons via NTD)

As Americans celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary on Saturday, July 4, fireworks are set to illuminate the night sky from coast to coast. The dazzling light displays are a beloved Independence Day tradition, but the loud booms can be very frightening for pets.

The American Kennel Club reports that more animals go missing on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year. Many animals that flee the noise are later picked up by animal control, with shelters across the country seeing a 30 to 60 percent spike in lost dogs and cats between July 4 and July 6, according to the American Animal Hospital Association.

Fortunately, there are a few simple precautions pet owners can take to reduce the risk of escapes and help keep their companion animals safe during fireworks.

Create a safe space for pets indoors

One of the best ways to ensure pets don't try to bolt during Independence Day festivities is to keep them safely indoors. Bring pets inside before the fireworks start up and get them settled in a quiet room with background noise to help drown out the fireworks blasts. It may also be helpful to turn on the television or some calming music to help muffle the outside noise.

Provide comfort and calming aids

If you're considering giving your dog or cat calming medications, supplements, or treats, Thrive Pet Healthcare advises consulting with your veterinarian first. Aside from relaxing aids, your pet's favorite bed, blanket, or chew toys may also help alleviate stress and anxiety during the holiday, so make sure they're close by and within easy reach.

Dog lying in bed with pillow and blanket. (Audrey Simons via NTD) — Dog lying in bed with pillow and blanket. Audrey Simons via NTD

Stay home with pets during fireworks if possible

Beyond providing a quiet space indoors, a familiar human presence can also be comforting to pets. According to the Sequoia Humane Society, dogs form incredibly strong attachment bonds with their owners and are more likely to feel secure and calm when a trusted human is around. So if plans allow, consider staying home with your dog or cat during the Fourth of July celebrations.

Make sure your home is fully secure

If staying home with your pets isn't an option, make sure all windows and doors are fully secure before heading out for the July 4 events. The American Kennel Club also recommends setting up a camera so that you can check in on your pets and reassure them while you're away.

Ensure pets have proper identification

Last but not least, to help ensure a happy reunion in the event your pet does escape, make sure your dog or cat has proper identification, such as a collar tag with a current contact number and up-to-date microchip registration.

As Dr. Tony Coronado, Thrive Pet Healthcare's vice president of emergency medicine, notes on the company's website, taking simple precautions can go a long way in keeping your pets safe.

"Pet owners do not need to overcomplicate the holiday," Coronado said. "Plan around your pet’s personality, keep comfort items nearby, and know when they need a break. Those small choices can make the weekend easier for pets and people."