The Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve are supposed to be celebratory. However, the holidays — and other random days — can be scary and dangerous for cats and dogs.

According to Lovet Pet Health Care veterinarian Kali Agudo, they’re one of the busiest days for lost-pet reports. Microchipping can help find these animals. 

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“A lot of pets end up running away or trying to hide somewhere,” Agudo said. “Microchipping definitely adds a way for owners to be able to find their pet. Shelters and vet clinics will scan them and, hopefully, they will lead the pets to their rightful owners.”

Microchipping isn’t painful or dangerous, she added. Unlike GPS devices, microchips don’t track a pet’s location. Instead, they store a unique ID number linked to the owner’s contact information. Agudo said there are other myths about microchips.

“Another misconception is that they [microchips] automatically work forever,” she said. “You want to update the microchip information anytime you move, you change your phone number, email or pet ownership.

“A lot of people forget to register their pets with themselves,” she said. “They’ll say, ‘Oh, they’re microchipped,’ but it’s still associated with the rescue they were at. Sometimes, the rescue has closed its doors.”

Occasionally, microchips will migrate out of the pet or move around,” she said. “Every few years, microchips should be rescanned to make sure it’s still in place.” 

The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) staff agrees. The website offers tips for easing pets’ fears, including turning on soft music and putting a snug T-shirt on the pet.

Citronella candles, insect coils and tiki torch oil should be kept out of reach, as they can cause stomach irritation and aspiration pneumonia in pets. Animals are curious and will chew on pretty much anything. Be sure to pick up trash and remaining materials. 

Still, microchipping is only part of the preparation. Agudo urged owners to create a safe environment before fireworks begin, close windows and doors, set up a quiet space, and talk to your veterinarian if your pet has a history of anxiety. 

“Preparation is key,” Agudo said. “Do as much as you can do for your animal.”