July 4th is a festive day for people but fireworks can be terrifying for our pets. It's also a time when shelters see a big spike in the number of stray animals.
Many pets tend to get lost in the loud commotion of Independence Day and often end up at the San Diego Humane Society.
Their heightened senses of hearing causes many animals to flee in search of a safe haven. Kelli Herwehe with the Humane Society said keep your pet inside to avoid any problems.
"They're going to be safer there and more comfortable," she said. "Just make sure you don't have any holes in your fence or open windows your pet can get out of."
Consider leaving the television on or playing soothing music to help drown out the noise. And make sure they have a comfortable place to hide or retreat too, if they get stressed, she added.
"Whether it's a crate with the bed inside the crate," Herwehe said. "They will feel really protected inside of the crate."
If guests are coming over, be sure they know the rules about keeping your pets inside at all times. July 5 is when the Humane Society and shelters see a big spike in stray animals so it's also a good idea to have them micro-chipped.
"You can get your micro-chipping here at the Humane Society right now for just $10, so its really easy and affordable and a great way to make sure, if it does get out, its returned to you quickly," Herwehe said.
