They're our best friends right? Let's all try being better ones over the long weekend, okay? According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), 1 in 5 pets go missing after being scared by the sound of fireworks, thunderstorms and other loud noises.

My giant German Shepherds, Bella and Zeus are two of the biggest scaredy cats when it comes to both thunderstorms and fireworks. If I'm sitting with them, they both try to get in my lap. If I'm sleeping, they break down the baby gate to my bedroom and try to climb up on the bed with me!

With a little planning and prevention you can be sure your beloved fur children are cared for, comfortable and - -around, to play fetch on Monday. Dog Vacay animal trainer Nicole Ellis has some tips for you:

  1.  Keep your dog at home -Taking them to the 4th of July festivities may sound fun until all of the noise and activity scares the crap out of them and they run for the hills.
  2. Get a pet sitter- If you are leaving them at home and you're worried how they'll react to the noise in your neighborhood, this could be a great option. A pet sitter isn't you, but at least they'll have a friendly human to comfort them.
  3. If you are hosting an event, be mindful of the entrances and exits of your home as your pup may try to make an escape at some point. You could put up a sign for your guests asking them to be aware of your buddy's presence and to keep an eye out for him. Or just keep your pup kenneled.
  4. If your pet hides comfortably. Let them. Don't force them out of hiding, they obvious don't want to be part of the chaos!
  5. Make sure your pooch's tags are up-to-date and easy-to-read, with current phone numbers just in case they do escape.

There are more great tips to be found here and on the ASPCA website.

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