How to keep your pets safe this 4th of July

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The Fourth of July is a fun time for many, with fireworks being something people look forward to shooting off all year.

But that also means it’s an extremely stressful time for your pets, who may get spooked by the loud noises.

Since there’s many animals that are going to be near fireworks going off, the El Paso County Animal Welfare Department is offering these tips to keep your pets safe and calm.

First, keep your pets inside and close the curtains.

Make sure you take them outside to use the restroom before the evening hours when the fireworks action really starts, that way there’s no unexpected accidents.

Turn on your TV to help mask the loud pops from outside.

Check your fencing to make sure they can’t escape your yard, and if that fails, make sure your pet is microchipped and your contact information is updated.

There’s another option being offered.

Pet's Barn is offering free calming chews for dogs at all their locations across El Paso. They say it’s best to give it to them an hour before the sun starts setting - that way they have enough time to kick in.

“They’re not only good for just for the fireworks, they’re also good for vet visits, if they have separation anxiety when you leave for work, and they’re scratching at the door, howling, they can help with multiple things," says Pet's Barn manager Jacob Pineda.

Loretta Hyde, a spokeswoman for the Animal Rescue League of Canutillo, adds putting cotton balls in your pets ears helps with the loud noises. She stresses to not put the cotton balls too deep in your pet's ears.