We are less than a week away from the Fourth of July. The Fourth of July is known by many as the most popular of the summer holiday celebrations because it includes family gatherings with cookouts and, of course, fireworks.

Fireworks safety is continually repeated by many when it comes to public safety. Human safety is always at the top of the list, but we often don’t talk about the importance of the pets when it comes to fireworks.

The Friends of the Bell County Animal Shelter discusses how statistics show that the Fourth of July is the one day of the year that most pets run away from home. The number of pets that run away from home increases by 30 percent.

The reason for pets running away is, of course, fireworks being used in celebration that will frighten pets and cause them to run. The increase of noise from the booms, the flashing lights, and high-pitch squeals of fireworks are uncommon for the pet’s atmosphere. If the pets aren’t properly kenneled, it could send them running away seeking a safe place.

One of the busiest days for animal shelters all over America is July 5 due to the increase in the number of runaway pets. The number of runaway pets each year during this time reaches the millions, with close to 8 million lost annually. With such a high number, only 26 percent of runaway dogs are every returned to their homes.

Here are some tips to ensure that your dog doesn’t run away from home due to being frightened of fireworks. First, make sure that they stay active throughout the day on the Fourth so they are tired out by that evening. If they are tired and exhausted, nervousness and anxiety will be less likely to occur. If your pets do get scared of the fireworks, you can make sure they have a safe spot designated for them to go so they feel safe such as a pet bed or kennel or crate.

Always make sure that your dog has a collar and ID tags. You can also keep them inside with the blinds closed and windows closed to shield them as much as possible from the fireworks.