As communities across the Lehigh Valley and surrounding communities prepare to celebrate Independence Day and America’s historic 250th birthday, The Sanctuary at Haafsville is reminding pet owners that the sights and sounds of fireworks can be frightening — and even dangerous — for dogs and cats.

July Fourth is consistently one of the most stressful days of the year for animals, as scared pets can often escape from yards and homes.

The Sanctuary is urging pet owners to plan ahead and take simple precautions to keep their animals safe throughout the holiday weekend.

“Fireworks are exciting for us, but for many dogs and cats, they can trigger real fear and anxiety,” said Sanctuary at Haafsville board of directors President Tanya Smargassi. “A few simple steps can make a big difference in keeping your pet safe and calm this Fourth of July.”

Ensure your pets remain safe this Independence Day:

• Keep pets indoors. The safest place for your dog or cat on July Fourth is inside, in a quiet room away from windows and noise. Don’t bring pets to fireworks displays, parades or crowded gatherings — the stress and chaos can cause even the calmest animal to bolt. If you do need to go outside with your pet in the evening, be sure to use a leash.

• Create a calm, comfortable space. Soft background music, a favorite blanket and a familiar space can go a long way in reducing anxiety. Giving your pet a long-lasting treat or enrichment toy can help keep them relaxed and distracted during peak firework hours.

• Make sure your pet has ID — and consider microchipping. Check that your pet’s collar tags have current contact information before the holiday. If your pet isn’t microchipped, talk to your veterinarian — it’s a simple, affordable procedure that dramatically improves the chances of a reunion if your pet gets lost.

• Talk to your veterinarian about anxiety options. If your pet has a history of noise anxiety, plan ahead. Options range from anxiety wraps and calming supplements to prescription medication. If medication is prescribed, do a trial run before the holiday so there are no surprises that night.

• Check your yard after fireworks. After the celebrations, do a walk-through of your yard before allowing pets out. Even if you didn’t have fireworks yourself, firework debris — which can contain heavy metals and toxic chemicals — has a way of landing in unexpected places and can be harmful if chewed or ingested.

Additional information can be found on the ASPCA’s website at aspca.org or the American Veterinary Medical Association’s website at avma.org.

The Sanctuary at Haafsville’s mission is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for animals in need. It empowers animals to heal, thrive and find loving, forever homes through a volunteer community of committed members. Visit thesanctuarypa.org or connect on social media for volunteer opportunities, donation information, upcoming events and guidance on adopting a pet.