EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 With Independence Day celebrations approaching, the El Paso County Animal Welfare Department is urging pet owners to take extra precautions to keep animals safe during fireworks festivities, when shelters often see an increase in lost pet reports.<\/p>\n
As part of its efforts to reunite pets with their owners, the department has added additional microchipping events outside of its Parks After Sunset movie series partnership. <\/p>\n
The newly added microchipping events will be held June 29 through July 2 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Animal Welfare Department administrative offices at 9521 Socorro Road, Suite B-3. <\/p>\n
The department said fireworks can be distressing and even dangerous for pets and offered several safety tips for the holiday:<\/p>\n
– Keep pets indoors and close curtains to block flashing lights and reduce anxiety.<\/p>\n
– Take pets outside on a leash for bathroom breaks before evening hours, when fireworks are most common.<\/p>\n
– Turn on the radio or TV to help mask outdoor noises.<\/p>\n
– Make sure pets are microchipped and that contact information is current in the registry.<\/p>\n
– Ensure pets wear a well-fitted collar with an ID tag.<\/p>\n
– Double-check fencing and gates to make sure pets cannot escape if frightened.<\/p>\n
Pet owners are also reminded to verify that their pet\u2019s microchip registration information is up to date. Anyone who has changed a phone number, moved to a new address, or needs to update contact information associated with a pet\u2019s microchip can visit the website here<\/a>. <\/p>\n For more pet safety resources or to report a lost or found pet, residents can contact the Animal Welfare Department at (915) 273-3582. <\/p>\n RECOMMENDED: List: Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks in El Paso; celebrations<\/a><\/p>\n