July 4th safety reminders for pet owners

Since Independence Day falls on a Tuesday this year, Mission Viejo Animal Services is expecting a long weekend of festivities.  Remember to prepare your pets for the parties early this year, starting Saturday, July 1 and continuing through Tuesday, July 4.

Here are some safety tips to help keep your dogs and cats happy and healthy as you celebrate this 4th of July:

• Keep them home - because fireworks are loud and can damage a dog's hearing, do not take your pet with you. Leave dogs indoors in a safe and secure room. Do not leave pets outside, even in a fenced yard as they could escape because they are so terrified by the noise.
• Keep them safe indoors – leave a TV or radio on to help block out the sound of fireworks and make sure all windows are closed.
• Keep proper ID on your pets – have your dog's tags on at all times. Microchip dogs and cats. If they do escape from your home, animal services can get them back to you with proper identification.
• Treats – human foods and other 4th of July treats and alcoholic beverages can be harmful to your pet . Keep them in a place your pet cannot get to and do not allow others to give your pets human food as treats. Keep dog treats on hand instead.
• Exercise your dog early in the day before fireworks begin.
• Keep charcoal and glow sticks far from curious canines.

The Animal Services Center will be closed on July 4 in observance of Independence Day. Limited staff will be available to respond to emergency calls only. For assistance or to report your pet missing during the holiday, call 949-470-3045.

The center will reopen on Wednesday, July 5 at noon.