If you were wishing you had a checklist for dog safety during 4th of July weekend, we got you covered!
The Essentials Checklist
✔️ Reflective Gear Clean and Ready
Make sure your dog’s high-visibility vest, reflective leash, or LED collar is clean, functional, and fitted properly. If you’re out before or after dark — or your pup bolts during a fireworks scare — this gear can be a literal lifesaver.
✔️ ID Tag Up-to-Date
Double-check that your dog’s collar has a legible ID tag with your current phone number. If you’ve moved or changed contact info recently, it’s worth replacing that tag before the holiday hits.
✔️ Microchip Registry Confirmed
Log in to your pet’s microchip registry (often through your vet or a provider like HomeAgain or AKC Reunite) and confirm that all contact information is correct. A chip only works if someone can reach you!
✔️ Safe Room Prepped
Designate a calm, quiet area inside your home for your dog during fireworks — ideally away from windows and crowds. Set it up with their bed, water bowl, toys, and maybe a little white noise or calming music to help drown out the booms.
✔️ Travel Go Bag Packed
If you’re hitting the road, prep a small travel kit with water, bowls, ID, meds, calming chews, reflective gear, and a favorite toy or blanket. Pro tip: include a printed photo of your dog in case you need to show someone what they look like quickly.
✔️ Frozen Treat or Toy Ready to Go
Have something special on hand to keep your dog occupied during the busiest hours. A frozen peanut butter Kong, a long-lasting chew, or a treat-stuffed puzzle toy can be a game-changer when fireworks start flying.
✔️ Fence/Gate Secure
Walk your yard ahead of time and check that all gates are latched, fences are sturdy, and there are no gaps your dog could squeeze through. Many escape attempts happen in a panic — don’t let a small hole turn into a big problem.
Ready, Set, Safe.
Print this checklist, post it where you'll see it, and run through it the morning of the Fourth. It’s the simplest way to make sure nothing slips through the cracks — and your pup stays happy, secure, and stress-free.