How to keep your pets happy and safe this 4th of July

From fireworks to barbeques, all the things we humans enjoy about the Independence Day aren't necessarily as much fun for our four-legged friends. While you may want to invite Rocky and Bailey to join in the festivities, check out these tips before making a decision.

Loud noises and large crowds can be scary for animals so fireworks aren't really their thing. According to the SPCA, the 5th of July is the busiest day of the year for most shelters. Last year, one shelter says it saw a 140 percent increase in lost pets after the Fourth.

• Get your pets inside well before it gets dark. Even outdoor cats should be brought inside for the night.
• Close up your house - scared animals are great escape artists and will find a way out.
• To lessen the startling boom of fireworks, leave on the TV or radio for background noise.
• Make sure your animals are wearing ID tags and if they're microchipped that the information is up to date.
• If you do lose your pet, don't wait to start looking. Knock on doors, call your local shelter and check Craigslist.

Fireworks aren't the only Fourth of July issue pet owners should consider. Keep an eye on your little guys all day long.

• Don't leave alcoholic beverages when animals can reach them. Pets get drunk too and it's not fun or safe for them.
• Keep matches, lighter fluid, and citronella products out of reach. All contain chemicals that can be dangerous for pets.
• Kids and ravers like glow jewelry. Pets don't. The luminescent chemicals can cause gastrointestinal irritation and you don't want them eating the plastic tubing and connectors either.

Check out more Fourth of July Safety Tips from the ASPCA.