The Humane Society for Hamilton County is encouraging pet owners to take steps now to keep their animals safe before the Fourth of July holiday.

On Saturday, June 27, HSHC will host its Saturday Safety Microchip Match event from 9 to 11 a.m., offering discounted microchip procedures for pets. The cost will be reduced to $25 for those making a $25 donation to the shelter’s June Matching Campaign.

The first 10 people to stop by will receive one free microchip.

Shelter officials say the event is aimed at promoting pet safety during a time of year when fireworks can frighten animals and increase the risk of pets running away from home. HSHC is urging residents to make an early plan to keep pets calm during fireworks displays and to make sure ID tags and microchip information are current.

“Fireworks may be fun for us, but they can be terrifying for our pets, and with the holiday just around the corner, now is the time to take early action,” said Emma Nobbe, HSHC Community Engagement Manager. “For community members who haven’t microchipped their pets, we hope this event will give them the opportunity to keep their pet extra safe this Fourth of July.”

The Fourth of July is often one of the busiest times of the year for animal shelters taking in lost pets. Microchips provide permanent identification and can greatly improve the chances of reuniting a lost pet with its owner.

HSHC says now is the time for families to prepare their homes and pets for the holiday weekend. In addition to microchipping, pet owners should check collars and tags, keep animals indoors during fireworks, and create a quiet space where pets can feel secure.

The Humane Society for Hamilton County serves as both the animal control facility and humane society for the county. The nonprofit receives partial funding from Hamilton County for the first 10 days of basic care for animals, but relies heavily on individual donations to fund its annual operating budget.

HSHC describes its mission as “Saving Lives. Educating Communities. Completing Families.” The organization operates as an open-admission, no-kill shelter and reports it has maintained an average live placement rate of 98 percent since 2014.

Pet owners interested in the microchip event may stop by HSHC on Saturday, June 27, between 9 and 11 a.m.