Fireworks And Figaro: Keeping Pets Safe This Holiday (2025 Version)

Gentle Reader, I hate to break this to you, but... your dog doesn’t care about Independence Day. They’re not here for freedom, fireworks, or questionable potato salad. They’re here for peace, treats, and maybe that soft spot on the couch.

But, 4th of July is on a Friday this year.  Which means, it’s basically the Super Bowl of panic for pets. According to the American Humane Society, July 5th is the busiest day of the year for animal shelters—because terrified dogs (and yes, a few cats) run for the hills when the booms begin.  And that'll be on a SATURDAY.  So it's going to be even worse this year.

Anyway, this is Figaro. Figaro is a cat. She sat me down the other day and told me all about what she wants to see from ya'll with the holiday weekend coming up.
If you want to avoid waking up on the 5th to a “LOST DOG” Facebook post and tears in your cornflakes, don't listen to her. Here are some ways to help your furry friend survive the Fourth.

1. Keep Them Away from Fireworks (aka the Noisy Sky Demons)

Look, fireworks are great for humans who enjoy loud sparkly chaos, but to pets, they’re basically the apocalypse. Keep your pets indoors and far away from the backyard rocket show—or your neighbor who thinks Roman candles are a personality trait. Bonus: It also protects them from stray sparks and the occasional firework-happy idiot.

2. Create a Chill Vibe, Spa Day Style

Close the windows, turn on the TV or some soothing music (might I suggest smooth jazz?), and make their hidey-hole cozy. If your dog’s suddenly decided the bathtub is their new safe space, fine. Put their bed, water, and a toy in there and let them ride it out like the introverted royalty they are.

3. Collar Up, Tag On, Leash Engaged

Even the best-behaved dogs can go full “Usain Bolt” when they’re panicking.  And don't even get me started on how quickly our youngest kitty can bolt when she gets the zoomies. Make sure your pet has their collar on, their tags are up to date, and if they’re outside (briefly!), keep them on a leash like their freedom depends on it—because honestly, it kind of does.

4. Step Away From the Chicken Bone

Yes, it’s a party. Yes, the dog is giving you the eyes. But handing over a greasy rib or chicken bone could land you both in the emergency vet’s waiting room. Just say no to people food. Stick to dog treats. They don’t need BBQ sauce in their life.

5. Watch Out for the Burny Stuff

Animals, particularly dogs, are curious. They’ll sniff, lick, or knock over just about anything—including hot grills, fire pits, lighter fluid, or that one match you lit and forgot about. Keep all fiery substances out of paw’s reach. Your dog’s eyebrows will thank you.

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A gentle reminder: Fireworks are 100% illegal in Sedalia city limits. You can’t sell them, shoot them, or even think about them too loudly without risking a stern look from local law enforcement.  And they've already put out the press release reminding you that the Po-Po are going to be out in force that weekend. That said, I’m SURE absolutely no one will be discharging fireworks in the city. Absolutely sure. Not a single person. Nope.

(But just in case, maybe still follow the tips above—even in town.)

Stay safe. Hug your pets. And maybe celebrate freedom in a way that doesn’t involve terrifying them into the drywall.

Safely yours,
Behka