July 5 Is the Busiest Day of the Year for Animal Shelters-Here's How to Keep Your Dog Safe This Fourth of July
It's the summer season, and there's always tons of fun to look forward to at this time of year. One special milestone just around the corner is America's 250th celebration on the Fourth of July. This special birthday celebration is shaping up to be a big event in all states, and that means it's time to get your business in order if you're a pet parent.
As is typical with Fourth of July or any celebration involving fireworks, now's the time to get your furry friend prepared for all of the ruckus that entails. Not just an anecdote, this time of the year is usually rough for pups, especially those who might be more frightened by loud noises.
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Keeping Your Dogs Safe This Fourth of July
According to Camp Bow Wow, the nation's leading pet care franchise, July 5 is the single busiest day of the year for animal shelters. This follows data from the American Animal Hospital Association that reports a 30 to 60 percent increase in lost pets between July 4 and 6. Now that bigger celebrations are planned for America's birthday, it's safe to assume this number will only rise.
To keep your pets safe and sound this Fourth of July, Molly Jespersen, Camp Bow Wow's training specialist, recommends taking proper precautions in advance for noise-sensitive pets.
For these more sensitive pups, Jespersen suggests setting up a safe, secure spot in the home just for them, stocked with all their favorite items and calm music or white noise. Items to try include anxiety vests, pheromone spray, or a lick mat to reduce stress. Before night falls, tire out your pup with a long morning walk that'll leave them nice and calm the rest of the day. Prepare snuffle mats and frozen treats to help keep them distracted and calm amid the activities.
Pet parents with dogs that are comfortable in crowds are advised to arrive early at parades and celebrations to secure quiet spots. It's also vital to be prepared with proper gear like water and leashes, which should remain on at all times.
Whether you're at home or enjoying the celebrations outside, ensure your dog's ID tags are current and legible.
Planning isn't about being overly cautious; it's about prioritizing your dog's health and safety before a very complex event. While everyone should be able to join the festivities, pet parents should be equipped to handle their dog's distinct needs before the celebration begins.
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This story was originally published June 28, 2026 at 2:20 PM.