This 4th of July should be memorable and stress-free. Unfortunately, many pet owners aren't aware how dangerous a holiday the 4th can be for Fido. It's important to not only make sure he doesn't eat things he's not supposed to, but that he's safe when the fireworks go off. Find out how you can make it safe for your pet!

Yes, the 4th of July holiday looms, as does the possibility your pet will suffer stress, trauma, or illness associated with the festivities.

1. Avoid dietary indiscretion: Permitting your pet to partake in holiday appetizers, main courses, or desserts can alter your pet’s normal feeding patterns and cause digestive imbalances.

2. Fatigue your pet for better behavior: Participate in appropriate exercise with your pet in the hours leading up to a 4th of July event.

3. Firework safety: Restrict your pet’s access to the immediate or adjacent area where fireworks are being set off. Keep your pet indoors in a quiet, cool, isolated part of your home.

4. Be cautious with festive pet adornments: Like Halloween, 4th of July holiday costumes are not necessarily accepted by all pets. Never force your pet to wear a costume if they resist your attempts at playing dress up.

5. Promote a calm energetic state through natural products or medications: Give your pet a dose of a safe, over the counter, stress relieving product, such as Rescue Remedy Pet, 1-2 hours before a potentially distressing event.

With all the commotion and fireworks going off, it can be hard to keep track of your doggy's emotions. If your dog has shown signs of distress before during this holiday, come up with a plan as to how you make him feel more secure and not stressed out. Planning ahead will keep you and Fido happy over the holiday weekend!

For more information on 4th of July safety tips, visit Dogtime.