LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Fourth of July is a time for celebration, barbecues and fireworks, but the loud noise and flashes of light from fireworks, and the commotion of celebrating people can be frightening for your pet.

Besides fireworks, there are other hazards to watch out for.

Here are some tips from regional animal control professionals to keep your pet safe this holiday.

Give your pet a safe haven

It’s less stressful and safer to leave your dog home rather than bring them to a July 4 celebration.

Keep cats and dogs indoors where they will be cool and in a familiar environment. Leave the radio or television on to mask the sound of fireworks.

Left outside, a frightened pet may jump over or dig under a fence, or get hurt trying to hide or get away. Cats may run and become disoriented and lost, or hide somewhere for days.

If you know your pet might become anxious, ask your veterinarian for medication to keep them calm. You may have to start the medication in advance, so plan ahead. Exercising your dog before you go may help tire them out and make them less anxious.

Make sure your pet has a collar with an ID tag

A dog license is important, and can be traced back to you, but for a quick return of your pet without a stop at the shelter, an ID tag with your contact information is the best.

For permanent identification, consider having your pet microchipped. This way, even if the tag falls off or your pet won’t wear a collar, you will still have a way to get them back home.

Lake County Animal Care and Control offers microchipping services. Call them at 707-263-0278.

If your pet is already chipped, don’t forget to keep your contact information current. Have an updated picture of your pet in case you have to put up signs.

Hazardous items

When celebrating, remember that items such as alcoholic beverages, lighter fluid, matches and citronella products can be harmful if ingested or inhaled, and should be kept away from pets.

Some foods, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, raisins, grapes, some nuts, avocados and caffeinated drinks also are harmful to pets.

Avoid giving your pet bones which can splinter or cause blockage, and table food in general which can cause intestinal upset or pancreatitis.

If your pet needs sunscreen or bug repellent, use products specifically for pets. For your pet’s safety, keep them away from areas where fireworks will be used.

Vehicles

As a reminder don’t leave your pet in a vehicle, even for just a moment, even with the windows cracked.

Even on a relatively mild 72-degree day, the temperature inside the vehicle can soar to over 110 degrees, and an animal can suffer irreversible brain and organ damage after only 15 minutes.

A dog in the bed of a pickup truck can become overheated as well, and the hot metal or even a rubber mat could burn your dog’s feet.

If you’re going out onto the lake, fit your dog with a life preserver in case they go overboard.