We hear a lot of talk about how to keep our pets safe over the Fourth of July holiday, but I didn't realize that the day after, July 5th, is one of the biggest days of the year for shelters taking in strays.

According to a national database, there is a 30-60% increase in lost pets between the 4th of July and July 6th. Only 14% of the owners of these pets are returned to their owners nationwide. What's worse is that in many locations, those pets are euthanized. Luckily for us, Tri-County Humane Society is a no-kill shelter, meaning they will do everything in their power to rehome a stray should the owners never come forward.

DOGS ARE AFRAID

The reason we have such an increase in lost pets during the 4th of July holiday is simple. Dogs are afraid. Can you imagine? You have to remember, they don't know what's coming. When the Fireworks start, it can cause severe anxiety for them.

This is why it's so important to think ahead of the weekend. You may not even be planning to go to a Fireworks display, but the noise from them may cause your pets to run in fear.

Anxiety in dogs can lead to them trying to hide, howling, barking, aggressive behavior, pacing, or cause them to relieve themselves inside your home.

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HOW TO KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE DURING FIREWORKS

ASPCA gives us some suggestions on how to keep our pets safe and at home during fireworks. Some things to consider before the weekend:

• Make sure your pet has identification tags on their collar.
• Give your pet something to keep their mind off the fireworks, like a KONG toy filled with peanut butter or a favorite chew toy to keep them busy indoors.
• Other people suggest keeping your pet in a room without windows and turning on some soft music, or playing some white noise, or putting the TV on their favorite television program; something that they are used to watching with their owners. All of these things can help drown out the sound of the fireworks.

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IF YOU LOSE YOUR PET

If by chance, you do lose your pet because they ran off in fear from the fireworks, you should start searching for them right away. MSPCA says: "The sooner you begin looking for your missing pet, the better your chances of finding him or her. The important thing to remember is that your pet needs you. It can't tell you where it is. You are responsible for its safety and rescue."

Also, reach out to TCHS or your local animal control office and tell them that you are looking for a lost pet. Having current photos of your pet will also help.