City and County of Denver, CO

07/01/2022 | Press release | Archived content

Keeping Pets Safe on the Most Patriotic Day of the Year

Keeping Pets Safe on the Most Patriotic Day of the Year

Published on July 01, 2022

Give your pets freedom from fear over the long holiday weekend

Fireworks will soon light up the night sky across the Denver-metro area in celebration of Independence Day on Monday. Denver Animal Protection (DAP) reminds us that while these dazzling displays are beautiful and thrilling for people, they can be downright frightening for pets.

DAP wants residents to have a safe and enjoyable Fourth, but also be aware of pet safety. Fireworks, sparklers, and other devices that discharge bright light and sound can scare even mild-mannered pets. Frightened animals are much more at risk to run, hide or become destructive. But there are many ways to keep your pet safe and calm during Independence Day celebrations. So, before you take your pet to a BBQ or fireworks display, please check out the following pet safety tips:

Don't:

  • Take your pet to parades or fireworks displays or leave your pet in the car at fireworks shows.
  • Leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. Pets that normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, when fearful. This could put them at risk of injury or death.

Do:

  • Keep pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure you've put away fragile items.
  • Find a pet sitter if you're spending the day away from home.
  • Provide a safe place. Pets may seek out a small den-like place, such as a crate, if they are fearful or stressed. Create a safe place and familiarize your pet with the area to reduce stress during fireworks.
  • License and microchip your pet. If your pet escapes, make sure your pet is licensed and microchipped. Having identification will increase the likelihood your pet will be returned to you. Visit the Denver Animal Shelter (DAS), at 1241 W. Bayaud Ave., to get your pet microchipped or licensed today.
  • Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags, so if they do get lost, they can be returned promptly. DAP offers customizable pet IDs.
  • Use a leash or carrier when transporting your pet. If you must be outside with your pet, keep the pet on a leash or in carrier.
  • Talk to your veterinarian if you know your dog has anxiety. A doctor can prescribe medication that can help.
  • Keep sparklers, glow sticks, charcoal, food scraps, and kabob skewers away from curious pets.

A lost pet can mean a broken heart. DAP has additional tips on how to prevent and find a lost pet. Animals found running at-large should be taken to your local animal shelter, including DAS, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.

Bring the oohs and aahs inside your home!

Because of a growing number of homeless dogs, DAS is holding an adoption special today, tomorrow and Sunday. Just $10 for all dogs, all ages. Find your new best friendhere.You can also check out ourlost dogswho may become available for adoption. Add some sparks to your life at DAS!

DAS is open Monday - Friday from 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. The shelter will be closed on Monday, July 4, but officers will be available to respond to emergencies. Also, the shelter has "night drop" kennels open after hours to help keep lost pets safe even after the shelter has closed. If your pet becomes lost over the holiday weekend, check our Lost Pets listings online or visit DAS to look for your lost pet in person.

For more information about DAP and DAS or to license your pet online, visit www.denveranimalshelter.org.

Illegal fireworks can be reported online at Denvergov.org/pocketgov - select "Report Fireworks" or by calling 720-913-2059 (a dedicated line for reporting illegal fireworks).