More pets are lost during the Fourth of July holiday than any other time of the year. To help lost pets reconnect with their owners and help pet owners avoid hefty impounding and boarding fees, Animal Friends of the Valleys is offering $10 microchips ahead of the holiday. This offer is valid June 5 through June 30 and available at the shelter during business hours and by appointment at AFV’s Low-Cost Spay and Neuter Clinic.
The shelter is located at 33751 Mission Trail in Wildomar. The clinic is located at 29001 Bastron in Lake Elsinore. To make an appointment, call 951-674-7729.
AFV recommends the following pet safety tips for the Fourth of July holiday:
Update Identification: It is crucial to make sure that the pet’s license and ID tag are updated. Collars might slip off so it is important to have pets microchipped before July 4.
Exercise Early: Take a long walk, play fetch and tire the pet out before dusk so they are tired before the fireworks begin.
Make a Den: Create a special safe space in the quietest room of the home for the pet to run to when loud noises scare them. Fill the space with blankets and pillows to absorb the sound and turn on soft music or low TV volume.
Talk to the Vet: If the pet is extremely anxious, talk to a veterinarian about medications and techniques that might help alleviate the pet’s fear and anxiety.
Leave Pet Home: Resist the temptation to bring pets to places with loud noises, new people, and unfamiliar environments. This could all be too overwhelming for the pet and they may make a break for it.
Distractions: Keep pets busy with treats and toys.
Pet Recovery Tips: Physically look for the pet at the shelter on a daily basis; fill out a lost pet report on the AFV website; use social media as a tool in networking to help find the lost pet; and check with neighbors for a sighting of the pet. If the pet is microchipped, contact the microchip company.
