Keeping Pets Safe this July 4th Holiday

July 1, 2014 - Whether the neighborhood teens are throwing firecrackers on your street… or your entire community is enjoying "the exuberant splendor" of a big fireworks display, your pet can become frantic and run away, trying to find a safe haven.

More pets go missing around the 4th of July than any other time of year, and noisy fireworks are to blame. According to the national statistics, animal control officials across the country see a 30% increase in lost pets each year between July 4th and 6th. In fact, July 5th is one of the busiest days of the year for shelters.

Mark Jakubczak, Certified Pet Detective and Founder, PetAmberAlert™, is committed to increasing the chance of beloved lost pets returning home. He said, "Sadly, only 14% of lost pets are returned to their owners, according to nationwide statistics. And worse, 30-60% of lost pets are euthanized because they cannot be properly identified and returned to their owners. That's why we're hoping to reach more pet owners and reduce these trends with our infographic."

PetAmberAlert's July 4th Lost Pets Infographic called "Afraid on the 4th - Keeps Pets Safe" puts a spotlight on the alarming statistics and provides tips on how pet owners can protect their pets.

Here are 4 simple tips on how to keep pets safe… plus a bonus tip on how pet owners can have a better chance of finding a lost pet.

1) Stay inside: Try to keep your pet indoors at all times during holiday celebrations. Ideally, someone stays home with your pet. Also keep your dog leashed when going out for walks.

2) Make them feel safe: Comfort your pets with petting, hugging, talking to them in a soothing voice, providing a treat and staying nearby if possible. Make sure they can access their crate or "safe place." Also ask your veterinarian or local pet retailer about natural calming products, anxiety wraps and other products that can help.

3) Avoid the noise. Try to drown out the fireworks sounds as much as possible by closing windows, playing music or turning on the TV.

4) Act normal! Your pet takes cues from your and your family's actions. It will help if you go about your normal routine as much as possible, talking and playing with your pet as usual.

5) Protect your pet before the fireworks begin. There are a number of lost-pet devices and services available today, and it's wise to be proactive in case your pet gets lost. Among the various pet-finder services available, the Pet Amber Alert ID Tag/Pet GPS combines Amber Alert technology with a QR Code and pet GPS to help MORE lost dogs, cats and even birds return home safely.

By following these tips, hopefully fewer families will face the heartbreak of losing a pet during the July 4th holiday.

About PetAmberAlert.com
When a child is missing, an Amber Alert is issued and the surrounding area, even the nation, goes to work to locate the child and return them safely home to their loved ones. PetAmberAlert.com uses the same advanced technology to help spread the word rapidly about a lost dog, lost cat, or any type of lost pet. Founded in the early 2000's, Pet Amber Alert is the original online lost pet-finder service. Its Certified Pet Detectives quickly dispatch lost pet alerts via phone, poster faxes, emails and social media. Today, Pet Amber Alert's lost dog and cat posters, phone calls and 24/7 Lost Pet Hotline are instantly recognized by veterinary hospitals, police stations, shelters, pet stores and even neighbors to help support a quick response. For more information, visit www.PetAmberAlert.com