With July 4 just around the corner, it’s important to keep your pets safe ahead of any firework displays.

Animals have impeccable hearing, which means loud noises — like fireworks — can often scare them.

The Humane Society of the United States offered the following tips for those with four-legged friends: 

Make sure your pets stay away from fireworks

The Humane Society said since pets are sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights and smells, it’s best to leave them inside and at home during any Fourth of July celebrations.

The Humane Society also recommended leaving a radio or television on at home to offset any loud noises.

If you have to bring your pet with you, make sure they are leashed at all times.

Additionally, don’t let your pet near any fireworks or explosives.

Ask a professional for help

If your pet is scared of fireworks, pet owners can reach out to their veterinarian to discuss stress relieving options. Some medications can help ease anxiety in animals. Make sure to consult with your vet before giving your pet any medicine, though.

Your vet could also recommend other tools such as calming pressure wraps.

There are also techniques your vet could suggest that could help your furry family member, such as ensuring they have a safe place to take comfort in, blocking out sound, utilizing white noise or creating distractions for your pet. 

Monitor your pet for heat stroke

During the dog days of summer, pets can be susceptible to heat, just like their owners.

Signs of heatstroke in pets include heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure and unconsciousness. Extreme temperatures can cause heatstroke, per Humane Society.

Humane Society said animals who are very old, very young, overweighted, have heart disease, have respiratory disease or are not used to getting a lot of exercise, are at high risk for heatstroke. Dogs and cats with short muzzles — such as pugs, boxers and Shih Tzus — have a harder time breathing in extreme heat.

If you believe your pet is suffering from heatstroke, the Humane Society said to immediately move them into a shaded or air-conditioned area. Applying ice packs or cold towels to their head, neck and chest can help, too. Owners can also opt to run cool — but not cold — water on their pets. Pets should drink a small amount of cool water or lick ice cubes. Humane Society said pets showing signs of heatstroke should be taken to the vet immediately.

For more tips on keeping your furry friends safe when it’s hot out, click here. 

ID, please

All pets should always wear a collar with an ID tag, even if they are an indoor-only pet. The Humane Society noted that indoor-only pets can become so frightened by loud noises they can sometimes go to extremes to escape. Having them properly ID’d and easily identifiable can be a lifesaver. 

Additionally, ensure your pet is micro-chipped and that your contact information is up to date.

If your pet does get lost, the Humane Society recommended contacting local animal control and shelters right away so they can be on the lookout.