The Fourth of July holiday is a busy day for San Diego County Animal Services when fireworks and firecrackers can scare pets to the point that they run away.
Last year, almost 60 dogs ended up at the county's animal shelters in the few days after the Fourth of July, according to a county news release.
To prepare, the county is offering to microchip dogs for free this week through Sunday. The procedure places a small chip under the dog's skin that can be read by a scanner and linked back to the owner if the dog is lost.
Dogs can be microchipped for free from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at any of the three county shelters. The cost is normally $10.
A county spokesman did not respond to an interview request, but a news release offered tips to pet owners on how to secure their animals before the holiday:
–Do not take your pet to fireworks displays.
–Do not leave your pet in the car.
–Keep your pets indoors in a sheltered, quiet area.
–Some dogs become destructive when frightened so remove dangerous objects your pet may chew.
–Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep your pet company while you’re away.
–Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard.
–If you know your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult your veterinarian about anxiety-relieving medication.
–If you are walking your dog near fireworks displays, be sure your pet is secured on a leash.
Animal Services also recommends registering pets with the app Finding Rover.
To report a lost pet, call Animal Services’ 24-hour emergency dispatch number at (619) 236-2341. To find a lost pet, check the department’s lost and found page and Finding Rover.
Lost pets can be picked up starting at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 5.
