Ask most dogs (yes, yours too) what is THE single worst day of the year, and July 4th gets 4 paws up. Fireworks and other loud noises are the primary culprit, but also please know that Fido is probably not socialized to large, chaotic events like the parade in Danville.

Even if your pooch gets along famously at the dog park, that experience is pretty specific, and does not (usually) include screaming, lunging children who can easily get bitten as a reflexive result. And it certainly does not have old guys in suspenders shooting-off deafening shotgun rounds. EVery year, I see some panicked canine who's slipped his collar or leash (microchip!) careening down the parade route in futile search of relief, and chased distantly by a desperate owner in a futile attempt to catch-up. Don't do that to your dog, or be that owner!

Each year, animal shelters overflow with strays on July 4-5 from such incidents and fireworks, so much so that some shelters pre-kill to clear space in anticipation of the deluge. Even unluckier pooches die as roadkill.

So please, PLEASE leave Bowser home from the parade and away from any fireworks. Leave your pets inside the house, preferably with curtains drawn and with the TV or stereo going -- but no 1812 Overture! Please also check your house for alternate escape routes -- I once had a border collie go out the accordion enclosure on a second floor window fan, and all HE wanted to do was to take a swim! In other words, they are more resourceful than you may think. Tying them outside can be a fatal mistake -- just ask the Tahoe gal who found her beloved pair of pups hanging from her deck when she got home.

So have a wonderful 4th -- but remember it's a species-specific celebration! Be kind to Rover (Kitty, too!) on his worst day of the year.

Thanks!