Albuquerque Animal Welfare Offers Pet Safety Tips for the Fourth of July
ALBUQUERQUE – The City’s Animal Welfare Department (AWD) encourages pet owners to protect their pets this July 4. While a wonderful day to celebrate with family and friends, for animals it is a fearful, stressful and dangerous time. Fireworks often drive pets to act out of character, especially if left outside and unattended.
“Knowing how to prepare your pet and keep them calm during the fireworks can make a big difference in ensuring their comfort during Fourth of July festivities,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Celebrate responsibly so it’s a fun holiday for everyone.”
These simple precautions during the festivities can help:
- Leave your pets at home and indoors. The noise of the fireworks for most pets could cause anxiety, fear and a desire to flee.
- Keep pets in a lit, cool, calm closed room with familiar sounds and chew toys that will help to distract and make the animal feel safe.
- Identification tags and microchips are a must in case the pet escapes. This will help reunite pets and owners quickly and effectively. Please make sure information on tags and microchips is updated. FREE microchipping and custom pet tags are available until Thursday, July 3, at the Eastside and Westside shelters. No appointment needed.
- If a pet gets especially stressed, ask your vet for help to soothe them.
“Taking these precautions can help ensure that both you and your pets have a safe and stress-free Fourth of July,” said Director of Animal Welfare Department Carolyn Ortega. “Let’s have a happy holiday for both people and pets.”
Should your pet get lost and end up at either shelter, AWD wants to expedite the process of returning them to you. If they are already spayed or neutered, they will be returned to you free of charge. All you have to do is pick them up at the shelter.
For Animal Welfare shelter locations.