Keep Pets Calm During 4th of July Fireworks: Bradshaw Animal Shelter Seeks Public Help

Sacramento County’s Bradshaw Animal Shelter is reaching out to the public for assistance in keeping shelter pets calm during the upcoming 4th of July fireworks. The loud noises from fireworks can cause significant distress to animals both inside and outside the shelter. The shelter invites community members to sit, sing, read, or gently play calming musical instruments during the festivities.

“All of the noises caused by celebrations are really terrifying for the animals and they don’t understand what is happening,” said Celeste Ingrid, Volunteer Program Coordinator for the Bradshaw Animal Shelter. “The human voice can be a very powerful tool for calming animals down.”

How to Participate

Registration is required online for individuals and groups of up to five people. Teens aged 12 and older are welcome but must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Pet Safety Tips for Home

While shelter pets are being comforted, don’t forget to take care of your pets at home. Here are some safety tips to prepare your pets for the 4th of July:

• Indoor Safety: Keep pets indoors in a sheltered, secure, quiet area. Turn on the TV or soothing music to help drown out the noise.
• Remove Hazards: Remove any items that could be destroyed or harmful if chewed.
• Veterinary Advice: If your pet is distressed by loud noises, consult with your veterinarian in advance.
• Identification: Ensure your pets are wearing ID tags, are microchipped, and have updated license information for quick return if lost.

For more tips, visit the Bradshaw Animal Shelter’s Pet Owner Safety Tips website.

What to Do If Your Pet Gets Lost

If your pet escapes during the 4th of July weekend, follow these steps to bring them home quickly:

• Report lost and found pets at Petco Love Lost.
• Check all local accommodations, websites, and social media, as scared pets can run far.
• Contact shelters for up-to-date information on animals in their care.
• Hang flyers and post on social media and local apps like Nextdoor and Facebook.
• Talk to your neighbors and postal workers, who might have seen your pet.

Waived Owner Redemption Fees

The days following July 4th are the busiest for animal shelters due to lost pets. To help reunite pets with their owners, the Bradshaw Animal Shelter is waiving owner redemption fees from July 1 to July 15, 2024.

For a list of lost and found pet resources and pets currently at the Bradshaw Animal Shelter, visit the Animal Care Services Website.