With a little planning, pet owners can ensure their furry family members have a safe and less stressful Independence Day.

More pets go missing on July Fourth than any other day of the year. Make sure your pet has a collar with an up-to-date ID tag, and that their microchip info is current. Double-check all windows, gates and doors. A dog in full panic mode can become a furry Houdini. If you’re hosting guests, remind them to be careful when opening doors.

Pet owners can take several steps to mitigate anxiety and ensure their pets' safety during fireworks displays, such as keeping them indoors, providing enrichment activities, and using calming aids. Animal experts warn that pets go missing around the Fourth of July more than any other weekend.