With Independence Day right around the corner, Miami-Dade County Animal Services is getting the word out to ensure that our furry friends stay safe during July 4 celebrations. The department has released a handful of guidelines aimed at reducing the stress pets often experience due to the fireworks synonymous with the holiday. Anxiety can hit pets hard when fireworks begin, so Animal Services is taking a proactive approach to keep them secure. They recommend walking and feeding pets before the fireworks start and keeping them indoors during the celebrations to avoid potential harm from loud noises, as reported by Miami-Dade County Animal Services.
Creating a comfortable environment for pets is crucial, as is updating their identification in case they manage to dash off. According to a statement obtained by Miami-Dade County Animal Services, "Fireworks and celebrations can cause pets to become frightened and potentially run away." Pet owners are advised to provide a safe space and use soft music to mask the noise, and to not forget to quickly reunite with pets in case they go missing.
Besides the usual recommendations, including the use of anxiety or thunder jackets and clearing all fireworks debris after celebrations, Animal Services also stresses the importance of proper identification. Pets should wear a collar with up-to-date ID tags and be microchipped for easier recovery if lost. Owners are urged to "Ensure your pet wears a collar with up-to-date ID tags and is microchipped," and to make sure that "Keep your contact information current with the microchip company and on your pet’s license tags, especially if you’ve recently moved," as per Miami-Dade County Animal Services.
Miami-Dade County Animal Services isn't only looking out for pets that might become distressed during the holiday; they're also offering guidance on what to do if you happen upon a lost animal. If a pet is found, they suggest checking for a microchip and keeping the animal close by, as "Lost pets often stay near their homes." Spreading the word through flyers and social media platforms like Nextdoor and Neighbors is also recommended to help quickly reunite lost pets with their owners. By being vigilant and prepared, the community can help ensure a safe and enjoyable July 4 for everyone, pets included.
About Miami-Dade County Animal Services: this department is no stranger to lost or abandoned animals, with tens of ever-changing numbers of dogs and cats coming through their doors annually. Their team works tirelessly every day to ensure these animals find permanent, loving homes. They facilitate this through onsite adoptions, events throughout the community, and collaborations with rescue organizations, volunteers, and adoption partners.
