For most people, the Fourth of July means cookouts, sunny afternoons by the pool, and evenings full of fireworks. But for dogs, the loud bangs can be a nightmare.

Fireworks are typically louder than gunfire and even many planes at takeoff. The loud noise, coupled with bright flashes, can confuse and scare dogs, inducing stress-related symptoms, including heightened heart and respiration rates.

That’s why some inmates in Brevard County Jail in Florida, have spent this year’s Independence Day comforting homeless dogs frightened by fireworks and other loud noises. To help ease the animals’ pain and anxiety, the inmates have read, played and fed dogs form the local Animal Care Center during the peak hours of celebration.

“Our goal is to not only help calm the dogs but also to help build and instill a sense of purpose and compassion in the inmates that will hopefully aid them as they transition back into society once they have served their time,” the sheriff’s office said on Facebook.

Originally started as a suggestion by citizens before turning into “an amazing idea to help calm our homeless pets,” this is the second year in a row inmates at the jail have spent the holiday comforting dogs, according to the sheriff’s office.