Keep Pets Safe During July 4 Parties

Fireworks sound loud to humans and even louder to many animals whose hearing is even more sensitive. During Fourth of July celebrations, pets may become lost or injured because of the many stimuli, according to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles.

Even backyard barbecues might not be as fun for pets as they are for people, said spcaLA. Hazards like toxic foods—chocolate, onions, tomatoes, avocados and grapes can all harm dogs—lighter fluids, matches and citronella candles can become problems.

Here are some tips for keeping your pet safe this Independence Day:

• Make sure all pets are microchipped and have current identification tags. That way, if the family dog runs away during the show's grand finale, it can be reunited more easily with its owners.

• Keep pets safe inside; don't tie dogs outside. A loud noise can scare a cat into hiding for a week or frighten a dog so it runs off. If a dog is chained outside, it can seriously injure itself—or even die—when trying to escape. Make sure your pet's kept in a cool, well-ventilated room with the radio playing softly in the background. Make your pet comfortable by including your pet's favorite toys and bed.

• Keep alcoholic beverages, matches and lighter fluids away from pets. These can all poison pets. Additionally, citronella candles, insect coils and other oil products can irritate pets' stomachs and central nervous systems.

• Only apply animal-friendly sunscreen and insect repellant—they can make your pet sick. Misusing insect repellent containing DEET can also lead to neurological problems for your pet.

• Don't feed your pet food from the barbecue. Cooked bones can splinter and kill an animal.

• Don't use fireworks around pets. Exposure to lit fireworks can lead to burns, while unlit fireworks often contain hazardous substances like arsenic.