As the New Year approaches, Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth along with the Animal Control and Protection Agency, are reminding residents to take extra precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of their pets.

Because New Year celebrations can be stressful for pets, particularly dogs, the Animal Control and Protection Agency has observed a surge in calls for lost dogs during this period, many of which can be prevented with a few simple measures.

Fireworks can be frightening for dogs, leading them to escape from yards and properties in search of safety. To mitigate this risk, Mayor Roth encourages pet owners to secure their dogs indoors or in a properly fenced outdoor area during the holiday season.

In a press release Mayor Roth said, “Pets are family for many residents, and our goal this holiday season is to ensure their safety. With a rise in lost dog reports during New Year celebrations, we’re asking our pet owners to help minimize their stress and worry during the festivities by taking a couple of simple steps that can ensure the safety of themselves and their four-legged friends.”

Mayor Roth recommends having dogs microchipped as a reliable and permanent form of identification. Collars can break or be removed, but a microchip ensures that vital information is always accessible, significantly increasing the chances of a lost pet being reunited with its owner.

For more information, contact the Animal Control and Protection Agency at 808-327-3558.

HPD Photo