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The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) Animal Services Division (ASD) encourages owners to take steps to keep pets safe this 4th of July.  

The noise associated with the holiday festivities, whether from neighbor’s firecrackers or large  fireworks displays, often causes pets to panic and run away as they try to find somewhere safe to  hide. Across the country, there is a 30% increase in lost pets July 4th– 6th. Animal shelters report  that July 5th is typically the busiest day of the year. On average, only 14% of pets that run away  during this time-period are reunited with their owners.  

Dogs are especially susceptible to the noise associated with fireworks. If unable to find a safe place  to hide, they may self-mutilate as a way to manage stress. Common signs of stress caused by  fireworks noise include shivering, shaking, excessive panting, salivating, and trying to hide.  

Tips for keeping pets safe:  

∙ Keep pets inside and, if possible, do not leave them alone.  

∙ Give pets access to their crate or other safe place in your home.  

∙ Periodically toss pets a treat or a toy to keep them occupied.  

∙ Cut down on noise by closing windows and turning on a radio or television.  ∙ Act normal around pets as they take emotional cues from humans.  

Microchipping is an effective way to greatly increase the chances of reunion between pets and  owners who become separated. Owners are reminded to ensure that contact information is up-to date with the microchip company.

If your pet is lost, please contact Forsyth County Animal Shelter at (336) 703-2480, or check their  website at https://forsyth.cc/AnimalShelter/ as all pets brought to the shelter as strays as listed  there. From the Animal Services Division and everyone at the FCSO, we wish our community a  safe and festive Fourth of July.

Anyone with information related to animal cruelty or any other criminal activity should contact  the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office directly at (336) 727-2112; anonymously text information,  photos, and video via Text-A-Tip at 336-920-8477; or anonymously call Crimestoppers at (336)  727-2800 for English or (336) 728-3904 for Spanish. To report information concerning juvenile  behavior or request juvenile intervention resources, call our Juvenile Intervention and  Investigation Team (JIIT) number at 336-917-7030; you may remain anonymous