Something that a lot of humans enjoy can be our pets’ worst nightmare.

“While many humans know what to expect with fireworks, animals don’t,” Emily Guice, corporate responsibility officer at People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, said. 

The bright and loud fireworks shows can scare pets.

“Dogs, cats, and other animals have much more sensitive hearing, and they see explosions and bright lights as threats,” she said. 

The nonprofit said some have gotten hurt or gone missing trying to get away from fireworks.

They have several ideas to keep pets calm and safe during fireworks.

“Keep them safely inside with windows and doors to the outside firmly shut, curtains drawn, and calming noises like a fan, TV, or classic music on,” she said. 

Another option is giving them melatonin or something like calming soft chews.

They’re for sale at Cooper Cuts in Millcreek.

“You would give these to them prior to fireworks if you know that they’re coming,” Cooper Cuts owner Sarah Nicewonger said. 

Dogs and cats show different signs that they’re scared.

“Dogs may pant, cats may hide under beds, Guice said. 

She said the best thing to do is to get ready now.

“Thundershirts can also help. They’re vests that apply constant pressure around animals' torsos, creating a similar effect to swaddling a baby,” she said.