Fireworks not so hot for pets

With the Poughkeepsie Exempt Firemen's Carnival taking place tonight through Sunday at Earline Patrice Mansion Square Park in the City of Poughkeepsie, we usher in fireworks season.

The carnival will feature a fireworks display Saturday at 9 p.m.

If your pet, like my Kate, isn't a fan of pyrotechnics, you probably have your work cut out for you.

The first summer I had Kate was in Manhattan and we were taking our last walk of the evening. I knew that the New York Philharmonic was doing a concert in Central Park, but I had forgotten that there were going to be fireworks to go along with the "1812 Overture."

Kate absolutely freaked, trying to crawl under cars and over them. Luckily the leash and collar held and I was able to drag her back to the apartment.

So here are some tips for keeping your pet safe during fireworks from the Humane Society of the United States. For the complete list, click the link.

• Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area.

• Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain.

• Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly.