But, with a little creativity there’s no reason you and your pup have to sit at home watching re-runs. There are several pretty cool and dog-centric activities you can share with your family and family member canine.

Dog Friendly Feasting

Let’s face it, when it comes to food fired up on the grill, our dogs are going to be glued to us like, well, dogs who want some grub. Unfortunately, many human foods are unhealthy and even toxic to pets.

Here are some tasty treats you can prepare for your dog, so he can also enjoy in the backyard food frenzy.

Dogs on Parade

All dogs are adorable, but ever-so-much cuter with a cleverly crafted holiday hat or outfit. If you are looking for a way to encapsulate your passion for artsy-crafty with your love for dog walking, why not host a neighborhood Fourth of July Dog Parade with prizes for the most patriotic or wild outfit?

You can even turn it into a fundraiser, with proceeds going to a local shelter or animal charity.

Fourth of July Fitness

If you have a day of big holiday plans lined up, you may want to forego the more laborious pet holiday tasks by simply inviting other dog owners for an early morning hike or jog. This expenditure of energy will help your dog stay relaxed during the holiday party or backyard barbeque. (Plus, it’s a good way for dog parents ensure those extra food and alcohol calories don’t hit the hips.)

Let Freedom Ring

For those who want to use the holiday to promote the plight of homeless and abandoned animals, the theme of freedom could be used creatively. Pitch the idea of a local adopt-a-thon for shelter pets seeking their own freedom. Several times a year many shelters will reduce fees for older pets or cats, as well as hard to place but deserving animals. This is a wonderful tie-in to encourage the community to adopt while celebrating the red, white, and blue.

All in the Family

If you want to keep it simple this year, as so many of us crave to do, there’s nothing quite like an intimate gathering of family and friends. If yours is a dog-friendly home, invite other guests to bring their pets to the merriment. Encourage your children to get involved by coordinating art tables where children can draw pictures of their favorite animals or their pets. Share stories. Relax over food. And, when the evening draws near, get out the less noisy and frightening fireworks, or simply relax under nature’s own light show: the glow of a starry night.

There’s never one right way to enjoy the holidays with our canine pals. Be creative. Be festive. And, remember the safety.

Happy 4th to all!