Protect your pets July 4

Food. Fireworks. Parties. While many people love the July 4 holiday, it can be traumatic for pets who have a phobic reaction to the loud sights and sounds that are synonymous with Independence Day celebrations.

With dogs and cats getting spooked and running away from yards, doors, and even screened windows to escape the chaos, the day can go from being festive to fraught for pet owners, too.

Dr. Erin Katribe, medical director at Best Friends Animal Society, a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of cats and dogs in America’s shelter in 2025, suggests being proactive a...