Keep Your Pets Safe and Protected This Independence Day

With the Fourth of July approaching, the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control or DACC reminds pet owners that extra precautions are necessary in order to protect pets during celebrations.

To ensure the safety of your pets, here are a few tips:

• Make sure your pet has a collar and tags with contact information. Include a phone number where you can be reached.
• Get your pet microchipped and make sure you register your pet with the microchip company.
• Do not take your pets with you when going to see fireworks displays. The noise and other activities at these events can easily frighten and overwhelm your dog or cat.
• Keep your pets indoors in a cool, comfortable place with some “white noise” distraction.
• Your pets may want to hide; allow them access to a room away from windows.
• If your dog is outside, make sure all gates are closed and locked and fencing is secure. Your dog may try to escape if they become startled.
• If you are leaving town for the weekend and cannot take your pets with you, make sure you leave them with someone who will be cautious and keep them secure during the Fourth of July celebrations.
• Talk to your veterinarian if you feel your pet may need additional support through medication.

“Independence Day is a time of celebration for humans but not for animals. Fireworks can terrify our beloved pets, and they may become injured or lost as a result. Please make sure your pets are safe and properly identified in case they flee, and keep a close eye on your pets to monitor their behavior and stress level” said DACC Director Marcia Mayeda.