Lunes, 22 Junio 2026, 5:05
(Source: Source )
In anticipation of the Fourth of July celebrations, Santa Barbara County Animal Services (SBCAS) has launched a “Before the Boom” campaign to help pet owners safeguard their animals from the distress caused by fireworks. Throughout June, the agency is providing free microchips, crate loans, collars, and ID tags at all three shelter locations in Santa Maria, Lompoc, and Santa Barbara.
These resources are available Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m.
Fireworks can terrify even the calmest pets, often causing them to panic, hide, or escape through open doors, windows, and gates. SBCAS aims to reduce the number of lost pets and improve reunification rates by encouraging early preparation.
“A single open door or gate can lead to a lost animal,” said Animal Services Director Sarah Aguilar. “A microchip, an ID tag, and a secure indoor space can make all the difference.”
To help pet owners prepare, SBCAS recommends several steps before fireworks begin: ensure pets have a microchip with updated information, write a phone number directly on the collar (since tags can fall off), check windows and fences for security, and borrow a crate from SBCAS to create a safe indoor den. Owners should also identify a quiet room—ideally one without windows—consult a veterinarian about calming medications, and use tools like Thundercoats or pheromone diffusers.
On the day of fireworks, pets should be kept indoors and supervised, with a TV, fan, or white noise to muffle sounds. Avoid table scraps or unfamiliar foods.
If a pet goes missing, owners should search the neighborhood immediately, post clear photos online, file a lost pet report, check shelter listings, and use Petco Love Lost facial recognition technology. Anyone who finds a lost pet should check for ID, have the pet scanned for a microchip, file a found pet report, and use Petco Love Lost to help reunite the animal with its family.
For more information, visit www.sbcanimalservices.org/july4.
© California TodayTodos los derechos reservados