The Brownsville Animal Regulation and Care Center will host a microchip madness event on Saturday where the first 100 pets will get it for free so that they can be safe ahead of the 4th of July fireworks.
On their social media, BARCC posted that more pets go missing on July 4th and 5th than any other day due to the fireworks.
The event will be from 12 to 4 p.m. at the BARCC facility located at 416 FM 511, Olmito, and pets must be at least 4 months old in order to receive a microchip.
“The most important thing that pet owners can do is make sure they (and their pets) are prepared,” the statement reads.
“Shelters are overwhelmed with missing animals brought in on these days, and we want to make the reunification process as easy as possible.”
The Humane Society of the United States said the booming sounds and flashing lights of fireworks can be terrifying and overwhelming for pets and possibly hazardous.
The official website states that on the Fourth of July many pets become so frightened by the noise and commotion of fireworks that they run from otherwise familiar environments and people, and sadly become lost.
They advise pet owners to do the following to keep the animals safe:
>> Keep your pet safely away from fireworks. Even pets who are usually kept outdoors should be brought inside. If you are going to an Independence Day event and cannot leave your pet unattended at home, keep them leashed and under your direct control at all times
>> If your pet is scared by fireworks, ask a veterinarian for help. There are medications and techniques that might help alleviate your pet’s fear and anxiety.
>> Protect your pet from heat stroke during summer festivities. High temperatures put your pet at risk of heat stroke, which can become deadly very quickly.
>> Safeguard your pet with a collar and ID tag. All pets, even those kept indoors full-time, should always wear collars with ID tags. Indoor-only pets can become so frightened during fireworks displays that they may take desperate measures to escape the noise, including breaking through windows or door screens.
The regular price for the microchip is $5. The Brownsville shelter also offers other services such as adoption of cat or dog, city licensing spayed/ neutered dog or cat, vaccination and deworming and euthanasia requests for animals.
