COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Fireworks are entertaining for humans, but for our family pets the noise is troublesome and harmful.

The fourth of July is a busy time for the dog wardens at the Franklin County Dog Shelter located at 4340 Tamarack Blvd. Dozens of dogs that escaped their homes to get away from neighborhood fireworks often end up at the shelter.

“A dog’s hearing is a little more sensitive than ours and they aren’t used to that. They don’t know what the noise is,” said Kaye Dickson, Franklin County Dog Shelter Director.

Dickson warns pet owners to make sure their dogs are up-to-date on their dog license and micro chipped. It makes it easier for the shelter to reunite them with the pet if they run away.

“Maybe when the events start in the evening, put them in a quiet place like the basement,” said Dickson.

Here are some tips from the Dog Shelter to reclaim your dog if they run away during this week’s festivities:

• If you have lost your dog, visit the Dog Shelter daily to look for your dog. Due to the large number of dogs received daily at the Shelter, we are unable to positively identify or answer questions about lost dogs over the phone.

• File a lost dog report with us, including a description of your dog, the date and location where he was last seen, and your contact information. If possible, include a photo of your dog to show us exactly what he or she looks like.

• Dogs wearing a current Franklin County dog license will be held at the Shelter for up to fourteen days. By state law unlicensed dogs are only required to be held for three days.

• Every attempt is made to reunite the lost dog with its owner. After the waiting period, dogs are evaluated for adoption or release to a reputable rescue group. Unadoptable dogs may be euthanized.