Every year, thousands of pets go missing over the Fourth of July holiday due to being frightened by fireworks or unknown guests visiting the home. To ensure pets stay safe and out of the shelter, El Paso Animal Services is urging pet owners to bring their pets indoors for the holiday.

Losing a pet is no way to celebrate a holiday, so keep them safe with these simple tips below:

Tips to help keep your pet safe and calm:                

·         Resist the urge to take your pets to fireworks displays.

·         Keep pets indoors and close doors, windows and curtains.

·         Take pets outside on a leash to “do their business” prior to the evening hours when fireworks are typically lit.

·         Turn on the radio or television to help mask outdoor noises.

·         Microchip your pet, and make sure your pet’s microchip is up-to-date with the correct contact information. You can do so for free at www.foundanimals.org.

·         Keep a well-fitting (not tight) collar and identification tag on your pet.

·         If your pet is crate-trained, place them in their crate.

·         Keep your pet occupied with toys, treats and activities.

·         If you have a new pet and you do not know how it will react to loud noises, stay with your pet.

Please note that all Animal Services facilities remain closed in order to keep the community and staff safe and healthy. However, the department is still operating essential services. If your pet does go missing, visit www.elpasoanimalservices.org/lostpetresources for information on how to look for and reclaim your pet, as well as other tips to aid in your search. You can also call (915) 212-8741 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, or 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.

If you find a lost pet, El Paso Animal Services recommends holding onto the animal and try to help them find their owners. Chances are lost pets haven’t wandered too far from home, and they are much more likely to be reunited with their families if they stay within their communities. Animal Services is providing anyone that finds a lost pet with supplies and support to help finders reunite pets with their owners. For more information on Found Pet resources, contact us at EPASFoundPets@elpasotexas.gov.

If a finder is unable to temporarily care for a lost pet, or the animal is sick, injured, in danger, aggressive, vicious, or at risk for cruelty or neglect, the community is encouraged to call 311.