Keeping Pets Safe During Fourth of July

SAN ANTONIO (June 30, 2026) – With the upcoming Fourth of July holiday fast approaching, now is the time for local pet owners to consider that both dogs and cats can become very frightened by noise and commotion. Since holiday parties tend to be louder than most, pet parents should take common-sense precautions to protect their furry friends.

Pets don’t like loud noises

Fourth of July celebrations may include noise, food and fun, but these events are no place for pets. Leave your pet at home in a secure, quiet area where they will be safe.

A collar and microchip ID can help your pet get back home if they get lost.

Roaming animals may be picked up by San Antonio Animal Care Services (SAACS) Officers, or worse yet, could be hit by a car. Your pet’s registered microchip ID is more than their ticket home, as microchips are the law in San Antonio. Double-check the contact information registered with the microchip now.

Don’t leave pets unattended outside, even in a fenced yard.

Pets can overreact when they’re scared, and the dog who has never left your yard before could easily dig a hole under the fence to escape noise. Fear of noise and outside gatherings can also cause your pet to act out or become entangled.

Never leave your pet in the car while you enjoy the party.

The South Texas heat can kill. It takes only minutes for a car’s inside temperature to soar over 120 degrees, and sadly, SAACS sees cases where pets have been left in vehicles while their families enjoyed local amusement parks and attractions. This is illegal, and a cracked window does nothing to eliminate the heat buildup. Leave your pet at home and do not risk their life

People food for people, please.

If you’re going to give your dog some scraps, stay away from bones and keep it minimal. Watermelon is a dog-friendly choice you might have at your July Fourth party, but remove the seeds and rind. Alcohol can be fatal to any animal and should never be given to them.

Watch the BBQ pit.

If it smells good to you, imagine what it smells like to your pet. Smaller barbeque pits can be knocked over by a dog. A hungry pet can get sneaky, and you don’t want to deal with taking them to the emergency room.

Give your pet peace and quiet

A closed-off area inside your home can be a blessing for a nervous pet. Some pets get destructive when they’re frightened, so remove valuables and provide toys. If your pet is crate-trained, make sure they can curl up inside. Fresh food and water are a must, and a treat or two will help.

Protect your pet from pranksters.

Some animal cruelty cases start out as what some consider “harmless pranks,” though they are not. Bring outdoor pets indoors, at least for the evening.

When in doubt, consult your veterinarian.

Local pet stores and your vet have a variety of remedies available to comfort your pet and set your mind at ease.

Saturday, July 4th^, is an official City holiday, and the SAACS main campus at 4710 State Highway 151 will be closed, but SAACS Officers will be on duty. All pet-related calls can still be phoned into 3-1-1 or 210-207-6000.