Here are 3 ways to keep your pets safe during fireworks this Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is upon us, and that means one thing: Fireworks displays aplenty.

Many anticipate the longstanding summer tradition of catching a show or two, but for your furry friends, fireworks are not a reason to party. Rather, they're a reason to hide.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the loud noises and flashing lights brought on by fireworks frighten pets, causing them to run. This, in turn, causes an uptick in lost dogs and cats after the Fourth of July.

According to national statistics from PetAmberAlert.com, animal control officials see a 30 percent increase in lost pets between July 4 and 6, with July 5 being one of the busiest days for shelters.

Whether you or someone near you is planning to host a party featuring fireworks, or there is a fireworks display planned for nearby, there are several ways to ensure your pet is safe and sound. Here are a few from the Humane Society of the United States.

Keep your pet safely away from fireworks

And that includes pets that are usually kept outdoors. To keep your pet extra comfortable, turn on a radio or the television to mask the jarring noises.

If you're going to an event and you can't leave your pet unattended at home, make sure to keep them on a leash and under your direct control at all times.

Ask a veterinarian for help

If your pet is spooked by loud noises, veterinarians can often prescribe medications and techniques that might help alleviate his or her fear and anxiety.

Otherwise, owners of fearful pets can try creating a safe space for their furry friend, distracting them with something they enjoy (like a game of fetch or their favorite toy) or trying behavior modification. For those who are leaving their pets at home, the ThunderShirt dog anxiety vest applies gentle, constant pressure to anxious dogs and cats, creating a calming sensation during events like fireworks and thunderstorms.

Safeguard your pet with proper identification

All pets, even those kept inside full-time, should wear collars with identification tags. During fireworks displays, the People For Ethical Treatment of Animals says dogs have jumped fences, broken chains, torn through screen doors and even leaped through glass doors in an attempt to escape the noise.

In addition to having an identification tag showing your pet's name, address and a phone number in case he or she gets lost, it's also a good idea to have a microchip, so as to better locate the pet's owner should the pet go missing.

If your pet does become lost, the Humane Society recommends calling your local animal control and surrounding shelters immediately. If you find a lost pet, take them to the address on the pet's tag or bring them to a local animal shelter so they can be reunited with their family.