The City of Detroit’s Animal Care and Control (DACC) reminds Detroiters that while fireworks season is fun for people, it’s stressful for pets. On top of dogs and cats being more sensitive to loud noises, statistics show that more pets go missing around the Fourth of July than any other time of year.

There are steps pet owners can take to ensure their furry family member is safe, calm and doesn’t go missing during firework displays.

• Keep pets indoors and cozy
  • Create a safe space in a quiet room or crate where they feel secure.
• Mask the noise
  • Close windows and doors to reduce loud sounds.
  • Turn on a television, music or white noise for comfort.
• Distract and prepare
  • Keep pets busy with toys or treats.
  • Make sure each pet in the home has ID tags and microchips that are up to date so if they do go missing, they can be returned home.

DACC picks up lost, stray or abandoned animals daily. If someone believes their pet is missing, they can click here or stop by the shelter any day of the week 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (1431 E. Ferry St). If someone finds a lost, stray or abandoned pet, call (313) 922-DOGS (3647).

Detroit Animal Care and Control is aware of scams that target owners of lost pets by impersonating DACC staff. Residents have reported receiving phone calls about their lost pet being found but injured and that payment is required for emergency surgery. The caller may ask for payment via Apple Pay, Chime, Cash App or Venmo. DACC will never ask for any kind of payment over the phone. DACC does not accept payments from gift cards or platforms like Apple Pay, Chime, Cass App or Venmo.

If someone receives a similar call, please report it to your Detroit Police Precinct or call Detroit Police Department’s non-emergency line at (313) 267-4600.