As fireworks light up the skies this Independence Day, LA Animal Services urges pet owners to take steps now to prevent their furry family members from becoming one of the many pets that end up in city shelters during the holiday.
The 4th of July and the days that follow are the busiest time of year for LA Animal Services Centers, officials say. The loud sounds and bright flashes from fireworks often frighten pets, prompting many to run from their homes and become lost.
To help ensure these animals can be quickly reunited with their families, LA Animal Services is offering free microchipping for pets owned by city of Los Angeles residents, while supplies last.
Pet owners living outside city limits can also have their animals microchipped for a $15 fee.
“Microchips provide pets with a permanent ID that quickly reunites them with their families,” said Annette Ramirez, interim general manager for LA Animal Services. “We encourage everyone to get their pets microchipped and make sure their contact information is up to date in the database.”
A microchip is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, injected under the skin between a pet’s shoulder blades. Each chip is linked to a national registry containing the owner’s contact details.
If a pet becomes lost, animal shelters and veterinary offices can scan the chip and reach out to the owner — making microchips a critical tool in reducing shelter overcrowding and reuniting families.
Microchipping services are available at all six LA Animal Services Centers, which are open Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and weekends from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Centers are closed on Mondays and city holidays.
To find your nearest shelter or learn more, visit: laanimalservices.com
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