As San Antonio readies for its annual Fourth of July festivities, pet owners are being reminded to prioritize the safety of their animals amidst the celebration, especially with fireworks and loud noises on the agenda. In a press release from the City of San Antonio's official website, the San Antonio Animal Care Services encouraged locals to leave pets at home during the Woodlawn Lake revelry, suggesting secure, quiet spaces for frightened dogs and cats during what is expected to be a high-decibel evening.
The San Antonio Animal Care Services highlights the importance of identification for pets, including collars and microchips — a legal requirement in San Antonio, to facilitate their return in case they get lost in the holiday shuffle. In the days leading up to July Fourth, San Antonio Animal Care Services is hosting more than a dozen free Safe Pet Pop-Up Clinics offering microchips and other pet safety gear, as reported in an article from the City of San Antonio's news release website. Pet owners can register for these services at SAACS.info/SafePet.
Among the other recommendations made, San Antonio Animal Care Services warns against leaving pets unattended outside, even with a fence, and stresses never to leave a pet in a car due to South Texas's sweltering heat. They also note that human food should be off-limits for pets at parties, and advise keeping an eye on barbeque pits which can be attractive, but dangerous, to a curious animal. "Protect your pet from pranksters," they add, noting some instances of animal cruelty can start from what begins as misguided fun, according to the City of San Antonio.
For pets that need shelter from the storm of Independence Day celebrations, San Antonio Animal Care Services suggests securing them in a peaceful area within the home. "Give your pet peace and quiet," the City of San Antonio press release states, recommending the removal of valuables to prevent possible damage from scared pets and ensuring essentials like fresh food and water are available. Pets are also at risk from pranksters, the agency adds, making it wise to bring outdoor animals inside, at least for the evening.
Local veterinarians can be consulted for additional advice on comforting pets during the Fourth of July, with pet stores offering various remedies. Although July 4 is a holiday and the San Antonio Animal Care Services main campus will be closed, officers will be on duty for any pet-related emergencies, accessible through a call to 311 or 210-207-6000, as informed by the City of San Antonio's news release.
