8 Ways to Keep Your Pet Safe on July 4th [Video]

Hot dogs aren’t the only dogs to prioritize on the Fourth of July!

Synonymous with backyard barbecues and fireworks galore, Independence Day is an anticipated summer celebration enjoyed by family and friends — however, pets shouldn’t be overlooked when the festivities commence.

While Fourth of July traditions are fun for humans, some can be frightening and overstimulating for dogs and cats. Activities involving fire, like sparklers and fireworks, can also be dangerous to their health if proper precautions aren’t taken.

Dr. Danielle Bernal, global veterinarian with Wellness Pet, tells PEOPLE it is important to identify your pets’ stressors ahead of time since “every pet is unique.” In contrast, she says some dogs and cats “may not react” to fireworks or other festivities at all!

Common signs of stress and anxiety look different in pets. For cats, Dr. Bernal says they “may show signs of increased vocalization, excessive grooming, urinating outside of the litter box, unusual aggression, hiding or …