Back to News
Keep Pets Safe on 4th of July
While You Celebrate Independence Day, Don't Forget About Your Four-Legged Family Members.
The 5th of July is the busiest day of the year for shelters across the country and many pets, frightened by the fireworks, end up wandering away from home. More pets go missing on the Fourth of July than any other holiday, so before you throw another hot dog or burger on the grill this holiday, take a moment to make sure your pet is safe.- Proper Identification: Ensure that your pet has current ID tags (or even better an updated microchip). This will greatly increase the chances that a lost pet will be reunited with their owner. For more information on lost or found pets, click here.
- Keep cool: The Fourth of July occurs during one of the hottest months, and panicked pets are subjected to heat stroke. Be sure pets have plenty of shade, fresh water, and keep pets off the hot pavement.
- Keep pets indoors and distracted: With fine-tuned senses, the loud fireworks and bursts of bright flashing lights can frighten pets and trigger them to flee or escape the yard. This can be disastrous on busy streets and in the extreme summer heat. Keep pets away from firework displays, and avoid taking pets to firework shows. Turn on the radio or TV to distract pets with severe anxiety.
- Know your pet’s whereabouts: Do not leave pets unattended in the backyard as the sound of fireworks can send them over the fence or digging to get out. Additionally, unattended food attracts curious pets onto counter tops or in trash cans. Alcohol and many foods found on your dinner plate can be poisonous for pets.
- Report Pets in Distress: To report animals in distress, please call AHS’ Emergency Animal Medical Technicians™ at 602.997.7585 ext. 2073.
July 3, 2017
January is National Train Your Dog Month!