Your guide to keeping your pet safe for the Fourth of July

Animal experts warn that pets go missing around the Fourth of July more than any other weekend. Here's a plan to help your animals stay safe and anxiety-free this holiday weekend.

• Don't leave your animals alone: It's best not to leave your animals alone during this time if they experience anxiety or have trouble with loud noises.

• Keep them indoors: The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that you keep animals indoors in a safe room or cage to avoid injury of running into dangerous items in your home.

• Close all windows and curtains: Keep them away from windows and close to reduce noises from outside.

• Take them on a walk: Make sure they have plenty of exercise earlier in the day to tire them out.

• Provide them with enrichment activities: Leave your dog something fun to do, like a frozen lick mat filled with their favorite treats.

• Utilize cannabis dog treats: Cannabis dog treats can ease anxiety in some animals and may be the proper solution to your problems this holiday.

• Use noise dampening equipment: Get your pet soundproof earmuffs or a sound machine to play soothing sounds to muffle noise.

• Use a compression vest to make them feel loved: Animal compression vests provide pets with a calming gentle pressure around their torso. The vest mimics being held by their owner and could be great for animals who are experiencing anxiety.

• Use professional services: Animal owners can get professional help during the holiday. Consider an animal sitting service where your pet can interact with other animals and humans in a safe environment.

Jalen Williams is an intern at the Detroit Free Press. Contact him at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Keep your pet safe from Firework noise this holiday season