On the Fourth of July, most household pets will not be in the mood for fireworks.
"It really just freaks them out and a lot of times their reaction is to want to run away and try to find a safe place to hide," said Dariel Walker with the San Diego Humane Society.
This year, instead of San Diego County Animal Services, most lost pets will be picked up by the Humane Society.
"As of July 1st we took over the city contracts for six additional cities," Walker said. "Carlsbad, Del Mar, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Santee and San Diego."
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In addition, the nonprofit provides animal services to Escondido, Imperial Beach, San Marcos, Oceanside, Poway and Vista.
"We have hired over 200 new employees," Walker said. "With the six additional cities we’re going from about 30,000 animals per year to about 50,000 animals per year."
That means if you lose a pet, you’ll most likely be coming to a Humane Society-run shelter to pick them up. Shelter workers are expecting an increase in lost animals during Fourth of July fireworks — but there are ways to help keep your pet calm.
"Keeping your pets inside during firework shows," Walker said. "We would also recommend closing your doors and windows and even playing some soft music or leaving your TV on."
The Humane Society is waiving pick up fees for pets that are lost this Fourth of July. The offer includes a free microchip and is available through this Sunday.
