Celebrating the Fourth of July holiday with the traditional fireworks displays can often cause stress to some pets and their owners. 

St. Joseph Animal Shelter Humane Educator Jenna Keyes said they encourage pet owners to watch their pet carefully over the Fourth of July. 

“If they’re nervous, it’s very easy for them to either hide under a bed, be scared, or sometimes they’ll actually dart away and try to run away from the noise and oftentimes we see a lot of pets running away from the home because they’re scared of fireworks,” Keyes said. “Or sometimes they like the fireworks and will try to run up and bite at them or chase them so it’s very important that you have an eye on your pet at all times and you are active in keeping them in a safe environment.” 

Keyes said to keep in mind that every pet reacts differently to stressful situations.

“Keeping them in a kennel or maybe in a room with a door closed to keep them quiet and comfortable during times of stress is often something that’s encouraged,” Keyes said. “Other animals may do the opposite, they don’t want to be left alone, they want to be right there with you, so a little bit of that comes with knowing your pet.”

Keyes recommends talking to your veterinarian for advice and suggestions on what to do to keep your pet calm if they are easily stressed by loud noises. 

In preparation for the Fourth of July holiday, Keyes said it’s a good time to get your pet microchipped if you haven’t already done so.

The St. Joseph Animal Shelter will be open from 1 to 5:30 p.m. on Monday and closed Tuesday for the Fourth of July.