Must-reads for keeping pets safe this July 4th

Photo: Kira_Yan/Adobe Stock

In the United States, more pets are lost on July 4th than any other time of the year. Loud noises from firework displays can cause anxiety or stress in animals, prompting them to run away or hide.

According to data from Shelter Animals Count, the week of July 4th consistently sees the highest surge in stray dog intakes at shelters nationwide.¹ In fact, July 5th was the single busiest day for stray dog intakes from 2021 through 2023, with 2024 following the same pattern.¹

This surge in stray dogs follows an earlier influx of stray cats between late May and early June,¹ placing additional strain on shelters operating at or near capacity. “...Shelters see a significant increase in lost dogs around the Fourth of July, making it one of the busiest times of the year,” Tori Fugate, director of communications at Shelter Animals Count, said in an organizational release.¹ “[The data] underscores the importance of asking the community for their support during this time to help reunite lost pets with their families quickly and reduce strain on shelter resources.”

Staying informed and prepared can help keep pets safe during this holiday season. From managing noise anxiety to water and heat risks to be aware of, the following articles offer guidance for this Fourth of July weekend:

• Keeping pets safe this 4th of July weekend: Guidance on microchipping pets, combating anxiety, blocking escape routes, and creating a plan in case of an emergency and for keeping pets safe.
• 5 summertime hazards for dogs: Learn more about the risks of heat strokes, sunburn, barbecues, fireworks, and precautions to take with guests, with special insight from Amber Karwacki, DVM, partner doctor at Heart + Paw.
• July 4th pet safety: Lakes, boating, and fireworks: With many families heading to lakes or the coast this weekend, this article offers insight from Texas A&M University’s College of Veterinary Medicine on:
  • Why pets should never drink stagnant water
  • Risks of blue-green algae exposure
  • Boat, vehicle, and water safety
  • Must-pack essentials

Reference

1. Stray dog intakes spike after July 4th, new data from Shelter Animals Count confirms—Shelter Animals Count. News release. Shelter Animals Count. June 23, 2025. Accessed July 1, 2025. https://www.shelteranimalscount.org/stray-dog-intakes-spike-after-july-4th-new-data-from-shelter-animals-count-confirms/#:~:text=Analysis%2C%20SAC%20News-,Stray%20Dog%20Intakes%20Spike%20After%20July%204th%2C%20New%20Data%20from,seasonal%20spike%20and%20respond%20effectively.