As many Houstonians prepare to kick off their Independence Day celebrations this weekend, BARC, the City of Houston’s Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, is sharing tips for how to keep pets safe. Many pets become lost on July 4th due to the stress induced by the loud celebration. Use these helpful tips to keep your furry friends safe at home this year.
Keep pets indoors
Even in fenced yards, pets may become so spooked that they could escape and become lost. It is best to keep all pets indoors during firework displays.
Create a comforting space
Set up a comfortable room or crate in your house just for them. Noise from a radio or TV can help diffuse the sound of fireworks. Provide your pets with plenty of toys and treats to keep them entertained and busy.
Escape–proof your home
Fireworks can cause some pets to panic even when indoors. To prevent escapes, ensure all windows and doors are closed and secured. If your pet escapes, please visit the BARC website or visit in person any time from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. any day of the week at our entrance at 3200 Carr Street, Houston, TX 77026.
Update pet identification
Identification is important in the event of separation. Make sure ID tags on collars are up to date and verify that microchips are current.
Never share party food and drinks with pets
Many human foods can be dangerous or even deadly for dogs, cats, and other types of pets. Remember to dispose of any leftover food waste in appropriate, secure garbage bins, both inside and outside of the home. Also, be sure to keep all alcohol out of reach of pets.
Keep your pets cool and hydrated
Sufficient shade and cool water is important for your pet to have while outdoors. Pets cannot regulate heat like humans and must be monitored carefully in hot weather. Their paws are also susceptible to heat, so be sure to keep pets off hot asphalt, concrete, or sand.
Beware of insect repellent
Never apply insect repellent products to your pet that are not labeled specifically for use on animals.
Pet Adoption Special at BARC this Weekend:
BARC is offering $4 pet adoption fees for all pets from Friday, July 1, through Sunday, July 3. To meet our adoptable pets, stop by BARC’s Adoption Center at 3300 Carr St. from 12 – 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday or visit http://www.houstontx.gov/barc/adopt_a_pet.html to see our adoptable pets. For more information on BARC’s full services, visit www.houstonbarc.com.
Please note that BARC will be closed for all services on Monday, July 4.
About BARC
BARC, the City of Houston’s Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, takes in more than 25,000 animals annually regardless of behavior, breed, or medical condition. BARC works each day to improve Houstonians and their pets’ health and safety by pioneering programs such as low-cost and no-cost spay/neuter services, mobile adoptions, transfer/rescue partnerships, and community outreach.
Through these programs and with community partners’ support, BARC’s live release rate has continued to improve and reached a historic high of 95.9% in the fiscal year 2021.
Visit www.houstonbarc.com or www.Facebook.com/BARCHouston for more information.