Got a scaredy-cat?

How to keep Fido and Fluffy from freaking out during July 4 fireworks.

Fireworks and sparklers, cheeseburgers and apple pie.

July Fourth is one of those holidays where your dog may wait patiently by the grill but run for the hills when the fireworks start.

“The loud noises and flashing lights, it’s just not a fun time for pets,” says Lisa Mendheim, a spokeswoman for Broward County Animal Care and Adoption. “The best place for them is inside in a quiet area.”

That goes for both cats and dogs, she said.

Each year, pets left outside race through open doors or jump fences, petrified by the boom of fireworks.

“Don’t take your dog to the fireworks,” she said. “And don’t keep them outdoors. You need to bring your dog and cat indoors.”

Mendheim also recommends making sure your pet is wearing its Broward County rabies registration tag and other identification in case it does escape from home.

“On July Fourth and the day after, we do get some calls about dogs being lost or people checking here to see if their pet is here,” she said. “That’s why the I.D. tags are so important.”

As far as that cheeseburger and pie, don’t be tempted to share your table scraps with the family dog, she said.

Onions, salt, dough, avocadoes, grapes, raisins and chocolate can be potentially toxic to your pet.

Make sure to keep curious pets away from the punch bowl, she said. That goes double if the punch is spiked with alcohol.

Hot grills, charcoal, lighter fluid and citronella candles can also harm your pet.

If your pet ingests a poisonous substance, contact your local veterinarian right away or call the Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. The center is open 24/7.