For many people, the Fourth of July is a time to celebrate with family, friends and fireworks. For pets, it's often one of the scariest nights of the year.
Every year, animal shelters across the country see a sharp increase in lost pets around the Fourth of July as frightened dogs and cats panic at the sound of fireworks, escape yards, slip out open doors or bolt from leashes. The good news? A few simple steps can help keep your pets safe at home.
Fourth of July Pet Safety Tips
- Keep pets indoors. Even pets that are usually comfortable outside can become startled by fireworks. Bring them inside before celebrations begin and keep them there for the evening.
- Create a safe, quiet space. Set up a comfortable room with their favorite bed, blankets, toys and water. Closing windows, curtains and playing calming music or the TV can help drown out loud noises.
- Double-check identification. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with current ID tags. If they're microchipped, verify that your contact information is up to date. A microchip is one of the best ways to help your pet find their way home.
- Talk to your veterinarian. If your pet becomes anxious during fireworks, talk to your veterinarian before the holiday about medications or other options that can help reduce stress and keep them calm during the celebrations.
- Exercise early. Take dogs for a walk earlier in the day before fireworks begin. Keep them on a secure leash, even if they're usually reliable off-leash.
- Leave them home. Fireworks shows, neighborhood parties and crowded events are not pet-friendly. The safest place for your pet is inside your home.
- Watch the doors. Guests coming and going can create opportunities for pets to slip outside. Remind visitors to keep doors and gates closed.
- Never leave pets in the yard during fireworks. Even fenced yards aren't escape-proof when a frightened pet is trying to get away.
Waived Redemption Fees
To help reunite lost pets with their families as quickly as possible, Sacramento County's Bradshaw Animal Shelter is waiving owner redemption fees from June 27 through July 11, 2026.
The fee waiver applies to all redeemable animals except those involved in ongoing investigations or animals that have been confiscated or placed under quarantine.
If your pet goes missing, don't wait. Visit the shelter as soon as possible and check our lost pet listings daily. Many lost pets are found within the first few days after the holiday.
Looking for Your Lost Pet?
Visit Bradshaw Animal Shelter at 3839 Bradshaw Road during public hours:
- Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday: Noon–5 p.m.
- Wednesday: Noon–6 p.m.
- Closed Mondays and County holidays
You can also view lost and found pets online before heading to the shelter.
A little preparation can make all the difference. By planning ahead and keeping pets safely indoors, we can help ensure this Fourth of July ends with more happy reunions, and fewer frightened pets spending the holiday away from home.