Meet Max -- a puppy with lots to learn and a whole summer to enjoy!

Woah, what's that? Something smells like heaven dipped in barbecue sauce! Let me just bust outside through the screen door and see what's happening!

This is Max. And this will be his first 4th of July ever.

He's just about ready to burst from all the excitement -- new people spending the whole day outside with him, delicious barbecue smells, and as much fun as he can stand.What he may not know is that several things about this special day can become a hazard to a pet -- especially a nosy puppy!If you've already guessed one thing pets don't always love about July 4th, we're going to bet it's fireworks. Yes, fireworks can scare a lot of pets, both cats and dogs, into hiding or even running away. Max may utilize that busted screen door later in the night to try to run from the scary noises of the fireworks, unless of course, his pet parents keep a close eye on him.That delicious-smelling barbecue might not be the best for Max either (poor guy!), but that's why we're here to share everything Max is learning about this boisterous holiday. His cat sister Millie, who's been around for a few more summers than Max, will try to show him the ropes, but really, no one can control a boisterous puppy better than his pet parents.

What Max Needs Today:

Updated ID tags and microchips, in case he or Millie need to be reunited with their pet parents.Festive pet treats like special flavored dog foods.Pet-conscious guests who don't leave the door to the big wide world open when coming and going.Pet-friendly sunscreen so Max's delicate nose doesn't burn when he's playing outside.

Flea and tick protection, so he doesn't become a meal for nasty bugs that come out in the summer.Being kept safely at home when the fireworks start -- not in a big scary park with tons of other dogs, people, sounds... oh my!

Treat-stuffed toys that give Max and Millie something to play with, engage with, and gnaw on so all those scary noises aren't so scary.Homeopathic and natural calming remedies like calming shirts and drops-- there, that's better!

What Max Won't Like Much:

Getting lost! What's sadder than a lost pet? Not much. Keep doors and windows closed, even if guests are coming in and out.People food. Okay, maybe Max is very interested in it, but only until it causes an upset stomach. Also, don't let Max or Millie get into these poisonous foods for dogs or poisonous foods for cats.Sparklers and roman candles -- Wayyyy too dangerous for our furry pals to be near.Fireworks, which can make pets very frightened and cause them to bolt. Keep your pets at home when it's time to go sit in the park and watch the fireworks. Make sure they have a safe and secure room to be in, plenty of toys to keep them occupied, and calming products if necessary. Better yet, have someone be the designated doggie sitter, and play the night away in the name of patriotism!

Plus, take a look at all these other great Independence Day tips!

Made in the USA Pet Supplies Showcase: These home-grown products will help you show your pride, and treat your pet.4th of July Safety Kit for Your Pets: Keep these nifty products close to hand to make July 4th a pet-safe day.

Made in USA vs. Sourced in the US Pet Foods: Do you know what the difference is? Find out here.How to Find a Lost Pet: If you're afraid your pet will escape or get lost for any reason, take a look at these tips on finding them quickly.

Don't forget to check your email inbox this weekend for a special 4th of July sale -- courtesy of Max!

6 Dog Safety Tips for the Fourth of July

While we just talked about this topic with

Sam's post on Tuesday, the topic of dogs and the 4th of July

is a hot one, so we're revisiting some points and introducing a couple new ones.Loud noises. Big crowds. Flashing lights in the sky. Leftovers from barbeques. The Fourth of July is a great day for families and friends all across America, but can be challenging for your dog. Find out six simple ways you can ensure a healthy, happy, anxiety-free day for your pup. 

1. Food Safety During Barbeques

Whether or not you allow your dog to eat human food is likely a decision you’ve made a long time ago. But food at a barbeque can be particularly dangerous for dogs: alcohol is always a no-no, but so are the onions you’re having on your burger, the avocado in your guacamole, and the bones that might be in grilled chicken. Be sure to let your friends know not to share food with your pet.

RELATED STORY: The Most Poisonous Foods for Dogs 

2. Prepare for Loud Noises

If you know -- or suspect -- that your dog doesn’t like loud noises, plan ahead. Make sure your pet has a safe spot in the house to hang out, cover up the noises if possible, and provide your pet with a Thundershirt

or other swaddle-like outfit.

RELATED STORY: 5 Tips for Dealing with Dogs Scared of Loud Noises

3. Don’t Bring Your Dog to the Fireworks

The crowds of people, loud crash of the fireworks exploding, and unexpected flashes of light are hard on your dog. We recommend that you leave dogs safely at home. It’s easy for a dog to panic, run away, get lost, or generally freak out during fireworks. Since it’s not a pleasant activity for pets, leaving them at home is both the kindest and the safest option. 

4. Definitely Don’t Leave Your Dog in the Car

If for some reason, leaving your dog at home is not an option, it would be preferable to bring your dog with you rather than leaving your dog alone in the car. During the heat of the summertime, leaving your dog in the car -- even with the windows cracked open -- is unsafe.

RELATED STORY: 5 Must-Read Safety Tips for Pets in Hot Weather

5. Make Home Cozy for Your Pet

If your dog will be home alone while you’re out celebrating Independence Day, or even if you’ll be around, make your house into a comfortable environment for your pet. For crate-trained dogs, the crate can be the most comforting place to ride out the wild night. Close the curtains to help block out the lights from the fireworks, and think about leaving the television on, or playing music for an audio distraction. Make sure that all doors and windows are closed -- even a normally placid pup can have an urge to escape when confronted a the fear-inducing situation. 

6. Be Careful With Sunscreen and Bug Spray

What’s good for you isn’t necessarily OK for your pet. Don’t give your pet a spritz of bug spray, and avoid using sunscreen for people on their fur. As well, citronella and lighter fluid can also be dangers for dogs, so make sure to keep those items far away from your pup.

RELATED STORY: Top Mosquito-Borne Illnesses PetPlus isa new benefit program for pet owners that provides member-only access to medications at wholesale prices, plus discounts on food, supplies, vet visits, boarding and more. Is it right for you and your dog?