brown and black dog wearing a red white and blue tutu with white stars

How to keep pets safe and out of the shelter this fourth of July

While Fourth of July celebrations may be fun for people, they can be terrifying for animals.

The Front Street Animal Shelter reports that this single evening leads to one of the highest intake days of stray pets all year. The shelter is urging pet owners to take extra care of their pets to prevent them from escaping during the festivities.

“Loud fireworks, unexpected noise, and unfamiliar activity can cause even the calmest animals to panic and run away,” said Ryan Hinderman, the shelter’s communications and customer service manager. “A little preparation now can prevent heartache later, and help ensure your pet stays safe, secure, and by your side this holiday.”

With the holiday quickly approaching, now is the time to prepare. Pet owners are encouraged to take simple but important steps to keep their furry family members safe.

The following tips can help your pet have a safe holiday and increase the chances of getting them back if they do stray from home.

If your pet takes or needs anxiety medication, now is the time to contact your veterinarian for a refill.
Keep pets inside not only on July 4, but during the few nights leading up to and following the holiday.
Make sure that windows and doors are kept closed.
Use a crate inside the home to provide an additional feeling of safety as well as reduced chance of escape if a door to the outside is accidentally left open.
Dim the lights and play soothing music.
Update your pet’s microchip and ID tag information – and acquire these ASAP, if you don’t have them already.
Ensure they are licensed with the City so they can quickly be returned home if they become lost.
Do not bring pets to venues where fireworks will be set off.
If they absolutely must be outside after dark, make sure they are not left unaccompanied or unleashed.
Double-check that your fences and gates are closed, locked, and secure against potential escapes.

If a pet goes missing, text STRAY to (833) 511-0426 to see pets at all Sacramento shelters and get expert pet-finding tips.

If you find a stray pet, try to hold onto them for 48 hours, as this can increase the chances of them being reunited with their owners and prevent them from adding to the shelter’s already impacted population.

Helpful tips on how to find a lost pet’s family are available on the Found Pet Tips web page.