How to Keep Your Dog Safe On The 4th of July 

Here's something you pet owners may not have known: more pets go missing over Fourth of July weekend than any other of the year. Why?

Fireworks. And there are a lot of fireworks celebrations this weekend around the Cedar Valley. Dogs rush for cover from the blast of fireworks. And before you say "dogs are stupid", they're NOT stupid. cats flip out when you run the vacuum -- I have been known to have some fun with this factoid -- and humans get scared of thunderstorms.

Keeping all that in mind, some canine experts have compiled a list of do’s and don’ts for keeping your pet safe during the mayhem (and by mayhem I mean other people shooting off fireworks and you keep your fingers and aren't rushed to the emergency room):

Do’s:
Equip your pet with collar IDs and microchips.
Turn up the TV to mask the sound of fireworks.
Make sure your dog has plenty of water, as stress causes them to pant.
Give them something to chew on.

Don’ts:
Take your dog to a fireworks show.
Leave them outside.
Approach dogs under stress.

Have a great 4th Of July, and stay safe!