As the Fourth of July approaches, Santa Clarita residents are being reminded that while fireworks may bring excitement for people, they often bring panic and danger for pets, especially in neighborhoods like Newhall, where illegal fireworks remain a recurring concern.

Joshua May, a firefighter of Los Angeles County Fire Department Station 73 in Newhall says he experiences the issue firsthand every year.

“I try to be home with my dogs during the Fourth of July because of the amount of illegal fireworks we experience here in Newhall,” May said. “The loud booms tend to scare animals enough to make them want to escape.”

According to LA Animal Services, shelters across Southern California see a surge in lost and frightened animals around the Independence Day holiday. 

With backyard gatherings, loud music, unfamiliar guests, and explosive fireworks all happening at once, pets can become overwhelmed, and some will bolt in fear if not properly secured.

May’s advice: Plan ahead.

“My first piece of advice is to make sure your furry friends are chipped and/or have a collar with your name and phone numbers,” he said. “Some animals have high anxiety, so if you know this about your pet, your vet can prescribe something to help calm them. This of course requires some advance planning.”

And one thing he stresses above all?

“Obviously the worst thing you can do is leave them loose in the backyard,” May added. “This is an invite for them to try to escape.”

Safety Tips for Santa Clarita Pet Owners

Following guidance from L.A. Animal Services, here are some key ways to protect your pets in Santa Clarita this Fourth of July:

1. Microchip and Tag Your Pets

Ensure your pet’s microchip information is current and that they’re wearing ID tags with your phone number. This can dramatically increase the chances of a safe return if they run away.

2. Keep Them Indoors

Create a secure, quiet space inside your home. Use a closed room, crate, or area with their favorite toys or blankets. Soothing music or white noise can help mask firework booms.

3. Never Leave Them Outside

Even calm pets can panic under firework stress. Keep gates locked and fences checked, but ideally, keep animals indoors where they’re safest.

4. Don’t Share Human Food

Avoid giving pets barbecue scraps or party snacks. Common foods like onions, chocolate, grapes, and yeast dough are toxic to animals.

5. Prepare for Anxiety

If your pet is prone to stress, consult with a vet about anxiety medications or calming techniques. 

6. Watch Out for Horses and Livestock

Residents in rural areas like Sand Canyon, Agua Dulce or Acton should also take precautions for equine friends. Secure fencing, background music, and ample hay can help horses stay calm. Always check fields after the holiday for firework debris.

If You Lose or Find a Pet

If your pet goes missing, act quickly:

• Use Petco Love Lost to scan and search for found animals.
• Post immediately to Santa Clarita’s local lost pet Facebook pages, Nextdoor, and Pawboost.
• Check shelters, including the Castaic Animal Care Center.
• Call 888-452-7381 to make an appointment with LA Animal Services if you find a lost or injured animal.

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