F.Y.I.: Fido Hates Fireworks - How To Protect Pets During July 4th Festivities

A Bay area animal services agency is reminding area pet owners to keep an eye out for their furry friends during the Fourth of July holiday weekend. 

And Petfinder.com reports that more dogs go missing on July 4 than any other day of the year, as fireworks can be especially frightening for dogs, which are known to escape or hide during Independence Day festivities.

Pet owners are advised to keep their animals inside during nearby fireworks displays and to provide a safe spot indoors for dogs if they get scared, Contra Costa County Animal Services officials said.

All pets should be outfitted with identification tags and a properly fitted collar in case they do make it outside, Animal Services officials added.

Dog owners who can't be at home today or this weekend are advised to close all windows and curtains and leave a TV or radio on to help drown out the sound of fireworks.

Petfinder also suggests taking a current photo of the pet in the event of the worst case scenario and your dog runs away, you'll want a current picture to spread around.

Petfinder recommends, as well, that before the festivities start, take your pup for a walk to tire him out so he's more relaxed.

And finally, pet owners should never use fireworks near their dogs, Animal Services officials said.

--Bay City News contributed to this report.