Fourth of July Pet Safety Tips for Colonies Residents: Fireworks Are Not for Pets
As communities anticipate fireworks filling the night sky in celebration of Independence Day, Harris County Pets (HCP), a division of Harris County Public Health, is urging pet owners in Colonies to think twice before bringing their furry companions into the festivities. While the Fourth of July is often marked by joy, barbecues, and booming displays, it can be a stressful—and even dangerous—time for dogs and cats.
“Fireworks may be exciting for us, but they can be terrifying for pets,” said Corey Steele, Director of Harris County Veterinary Public Health. “Typically, we tend to see an increase in calls of stray and frightened animals following the holiday. The best way to protect your pet is to prepare in advance, keep them indoors, and ensure they have a microchip with current contact information.”
Each year, pet shelters across the Greater Houston area, including in neighborhoods like Colonies, report an increase in lost pets immediately following the holiday. The loud, unpredictable noises of fireworks can cause even the most well-trained pet to panic—resulting in them jumping fences, bolting through open doors, or becoming disoriented and lost. Some pets may even suffer injuries or anxiety-related health issues while trying to escape.
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According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), July 5 is consistently one of the busiest days of the year for animal shelters across the United States due to pets fleeing from fireworks the night before. In fact, national data indicates that animal control agencies experience a 30% to 60% spike in lost pet reports during the July 4th holiday window.
The AVMA also reports that nearly half of dogs exhibit fear-related behaviors in response to loud noises like fireworks, which can trigger dangerous escape attempts or self-injury. Fortunately, pets with microchips are up to 20 times more likely to be reunited with their families if lost, reinforcing the importance of ID tags and chip registration ahead of the holiday festivities.
Top Pet Safety Tips for July 4th in Colonies
To help Colonies residents prepare, Harris County Pets has released several essential tips for keeping pets safe during Fourth of July celebrations:
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Leave pets at home: Parades, firework shows, and block parties are not safe environments for animals. Crowds, loud noises, and unfamiliar surroundings can lead to anxiety or unpredictable behavior.
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Create a quiet indoor space: Keep pets indoors in a secure, calming area—such as an interior room or crate—filled with familiar bedding and toys. A fan, TV, or radio can help muffle loud fireworks.
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Check identification: Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with an up-to-date ID tag. If your pet has a microchip, verify that the information is current with the registry.
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Be proactive: Take a clear, recent photo of your pet. During gatherings, watch for open doors, loose gates, or children accidentally letting pets out.
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Consult your vet: If your pet has a history of anxiety during storms or fireworks, ask your veterinarian about calming aids, training techniques, or medications.
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Avoid common holiday hazards: Fireworks, glow sticks, charcoal, hot grills, alcohol, and party food can pose serious risks to pets if ingested or touched.
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Never leave pets in cars: Temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly, creating life-threatening conditions even if the windows are cracked.
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Lost Pets in Colonies? Here's What to Do
Harris County Pets reminds residents that every stray animal brought into their shelter is scanned for a microchip. Microchipping remains one of the most effective ways to ensure a lost pet finds its way back home. If you find a loose or frightened pet in Colonies during the holiday, call HCP at 281-999-3191 to report it.
July Fourth is a time to celebrate freedom—but for pets, it's one of the most stressful nights of the year. With a little planning and awareness, residents of Colonies can ensure their furry family members are kept safe, calm, and close to home.
For more pet safety tips and community updates throughout the summer, stay connected with My Neighborhood News.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
