01/07/2025
Fourth of July is just around the corner again, and with it comes fireworks, flags, hot dogs, and...lost dogs? More pets go missing around the Fourth of July than any other time of year. Here are some of our Fourth of July tips and tricks to keep the holiday safe and enjoyable for your pup.
1. Keep your dog on leash outside even if you have a fenced in back yard. Dogs have been known to jump fences when startled by loud sounds. Make sure they have an up-to-date ID tag on their collar.
2. Try to do any outdoor activities in the morning before the big booms start. If you usually do a 30 minute walk in the evening, consider a walk in the morning and an indoor enrichment activity to do at night.
3. If you plan on having guests over make sure your dog has a quiet place to retreat to if they need some space. Keep an eye on doors opening and closing or consider putting up some kind of barrier to be sure your dog can't bolt if a door is left open a little too long.
4. If your dog does happen to go missing notify your local pet shelter, post to your local lost pet groups, and let your neighbors know. Most pets don't wander too far from home so make sure neighbors check under patios/decks, garages, sheds, etc.
5. If you happen to come across an animal that seems to be lost remember that they are likely stressed and scared so approach with caution. Try to take a picture and post to lost pet groups with information about where you saw the animal. If the animal seems friendly and approaches you, you can see if they have an ID. If they don't, call the animal shelter/animal control and they can scan for a microchip.
