June Microchip Events Aim to Keep Pets Safe This Independence Day

YUMA, Ariz. - Fireworks and celebrations may be fun for humans, but for pets, they can be a frightening experience-often leading to a spike in lost animals. That's why the City of Yuma, Yuma County, and the Humane Society of Yuma (HSOY) are partnering to host two free community microchipping events this June to help keep pets safe and make it easier to reunite them with their families if they go missing. Microchipping services are free and open to all pet owners-no residency or income restrictions apply.

In addition to microchipping, the events will feature adoption specials and local food trucks will be on site. No appointment is needed. Pet owners are reminded that dogs must be leashed, and cats must be secured in carriers.

Community-Wide Microchip Event Details

• Saturday, June 21 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
  Humane Society of Yuma, 4050 S. Avenue 4 ½ E

• Saturday, June 28 | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
  John Morris Cottage at Carver Park, 385 S. 13th Avenue

"Every year around Independence Day, we see a spike in lost pets due to fireworks," said Annette Lagunas, Executive Director, Humane Society of Yuma. "Microchipping is a quick and effective way to give pets a better chance of being reunited with their families. We're grateful for the support of the City and County in making this service available to the community."

The events are scheduled ahead of the Fourth of July because loud noises like fireworks can cause pets to panic, escape, and become lost. Microchipping provides a permanent form of identification that can't fall off or be removed like collars and tags.

Microchips contain a unique ID number that shelters, veterinarians, and others with a scanner can use to access an owner's contact information. Pets with microchips are more than twice as likely to be returned home.

"We're proud to co-sponsor this event with HSOY and the City of Yuma. Microchipping plays a critical role in helping lost pets find their way home, especially when the community has access to scanners at vet clinics and other local sites," said Diana Gomez, Chief Health Officer, Yuma County Public Health Services District.

What to Do if You Find a Lost Dog

"If you find a stray dog this holiday weekend, there are simple steps you can take to help get them home safely," said Jennifer Reichelt, Deputy City Administrator. "Start by checking for a microchip at a local scanner location-like a vet clinic, the Humane Society, or a Rural Metro station. You can also visit the Humane Society's website or contact Animal Control for guidance. A little effort can go a long way in reuniting a pet with its family."

If you come across a lost or stray dog during the holiday weekend, don't assume it's been abandoned-many pets escape due to fireworks or other sudden noises. Here's how you can help:

Check for a microchip. Beginning July 1, all Rural Metro Fire stations will have scanners available, along with the Humane Society of Yuma and most local veterinary clinics. Yuma fire stations are expected to begin offering this service later this summer. You can view the full list of current scanner locations at: https://bit.ly/MicroChipScanners

• Keep the pet safe and contained in a secure space while you try to locate the owner.

• Visit https://www.hsoyuma.com/found-an-animal.html for step-by-step instructions on what to do next-including how to create a found pet flyer, report the animal, and post to local lost and found pages.

• Contact Animal Control if the animal is injured, aggressive, or cannot be safely contained:
• • City of Yuma: (928) 373-4795
  • Yuma County: (928) 341-8800

• Avoid bringing healthy stray animals directly to the shelter, as space may be limited unless the animal is in danger or requires immediate care.

Taking just a few minutes to follow these steps can make all the difference in reuniting a pet with its family and easing the burden on local shelters.

As a reminder, while fireworks are a beloved part of Independence Day, they can be distressing not only for animals but also for veterans and neighbors sensitive to noise. Please be thoughtful and considerate-a little extra care can help everyone enjoy a safe and respectful holiday.

For more information regarding the microchipping event contact the Humane Society of Yuma at 928-782-1621.