As the country gears up for Independence Day celebrations, it's not just the two-legged attendees that need consideration. Arlington Animal Services is putting out a reminder for pet owners to keep their furry friends safe amidst the excitement, where historically more pets go missing during the 4th of July than any other time due to fireworks and parties. According to an article released by the City of Arlington, "The 5th of July is typically one of the busiest days of the year for animal shelters," which sees an influx of runaway pets spooked by the day's loud festivities.
Those planning to include their pets in the day's events should heed advice from the ASCPA, which provides tips on keeping animals calm and secure. Ensuring pets have proper identification is a must; this includes a microchip and current ID tags. Arlington pet owners are urged to license and register their cats and dogs annually and to keep contact information updated. For pets that exhibit anxiety through pacing, trembling, or hiding, the city recommends bringing them indoors and creating a safe space. But remember, the use of fireworks within city limits is still illegal, and those caught may be slapped with a fine up to $2,000. The enforcement of such laws serves as a dual effort to preserve public safety and tranquility for the city's animal population.
Should a pet still manage to slip away during these celebrations, steps have been set out for recovery. Arlington Animal Services suggests reporting lost pets through PawBoost, an online service free of charge. The "Animal Services website" offers access to resources such as 'Lost Pets in Shelter' and views of 'Found Pets' through PawBoost. Additional support is available via the Petco Love Lost website, or for those in person, one can visit the Animal Services Center directly.
