More pets go missing over the 4th of July than at any other time of year. It’s partly because of all the visitors coming and going, the parties and events, and the neighborhood celebrations. But most of all it’s because of the fireworks.
Cats and dogs have very sensitive ears, and loud explosions can be painful. They’re also very startling. And if your pet’s flight instinct gets triggered, they might bolt.
So keep your pets leashed, keep them calm, and make sure they have ID.
Is Your Pet Microchipped? Is Your Contact Info Current?
Now is a good time to check and make sure your pet’s microchip ID info is up to date. If you’ve moved or changed your phone number, don’t forget to log in to the registry to change it. And if your pet isn’t microchipped, make a vet appointment. Microchipping is quick and virtually pain-free. It hurts less than a rabies shot, and it only needs to happen once.
Collar ID tags are great, but it’s all too easy for a pet to slip their collar. Tags can also get snagged and lost, even when a pet’s collar stays on. Having a microchip ID as a backup is the best way to make sure your pet makes it back home.
Pet Safety During the 4th of July Weekend
If you’re planning on going to an outdoor fireworks display, leave your pets at home. We know it’s hard to part with them, especially for an event that you’re excited about, but it’s simply not safe for pets. In fact, that’s why pets are not allowed at the fireworks in Gilbert Regional Park.
But it’s not just the fireworks on the night of the Fourth that you have to worry about. There’s always that ONE neighbor who likes to set off loud fireworks at random all week long.
The City of Gilbert permits some types of fireworks on private property from June 24 to July 6 this year. But even though aerial fireworks are not allowed, the little ones can still make enough noise and sparks to frighten pets. So when you let your pets outdoors, keep them leashed or make sure there’s absolutely no way they can get out of your yard.
Fear-Free Veterinary Care for Pets in Gilbert
East Valley Animal Hospital is a fear-free certified practice. That means everyone on our staff is trained to recognize the signs of fear and stress in pets so they can help those pets feel safe. It means we put your pet’s physical and emotional wellbeing first, but that we also try to make vet visits stress-free for pet owners, too.
If your pet is due for a checkup, make an appointment today! And during your next visit we’d be happy to discuss a microchip ID, anti-anxiety medications, CBD supplements, or anything else your pet needs to get them through the next fireworks celebration in Gilbert on New Year’s Eve.
Photo by Denis Bayer on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 6/25/26.