Remember your pets during fireworks this Fourth of July

If you have a dog at home, fireworks can be a real nightmare.

Many dogs become scared or startled by the bright lights and the noise associated with fireworks, while others aren't fazed at all.

Dr. Mike Hutchinson of Animal General in Cranberry Township explains why the sights and sounds of the 4th affect animals in different ways.

“I always marvel at the people that bring their dogs (to fireworks displays) and then I watch the dogs and some of those dogs are extremely frightened and I wonder about those people bringing them,” said Dr. Mike. “I recommend keeping them at home, putting them in a center room maybe with some white noise, get the blinds down and the curtains closed and just keep them calm. Sit with them and maybe play with a toy and talk to them.”

He offers this advice: don't praise your pet when they're scared because that reinforces bad behavior. Instead, try to distract them with some toys or maybe a treat for good behavior