Help Arizona Humane Society Shelter Pets this Fourth of July!

PHOENIX (June 26, 2023) – The Arizona Humane Society (AHS) is excited to announce its “Paw-sitive Vibes for the Fourth of July” event where people of all ages, including children, are invited to read to its shelter pets to help keep them calm during the holiday’s festivities and fireworks. This special event will take place at AHS’ South Mountain Campus on Tuesday, July 4 from 8-9:30 p.m. The family-friendly event is limited on space, those interested in learning more or signing up are encouraged to visit azhumane.org/events.

Additionally, the July 5 is the busiest day of the year for shelters across the country and many pets end up wandering away from home due to being frightened by fireworks. More pets go missing around and on the Fourth of July than any other holiday. To help keep pets in their homes this Independence Day, AHS offers the following pet safety tips.

Proper Identification
Ensure pets have current ID tags and updated microchips. This will greatly increase the chances that a lost pet will be reunited with their owner.

Keep Cool
July fourth occurs during one of the hottest months and panicked pets are subject to heat stroke. Be sure pets have plenty of shade, fresh water and keep pets off the hot pavement.

Keep Pets Indoors and Distracted
Fireworks and bursts of bright flashing lights can frighten pets and trigger them to flee or escape the yard. This can be disastrous on busy streets, especially in the extreme summer heat. Keep pets away from firework displays and avoid taking pets to firework shows. Turn on the radio or TV to distract pets with severe anxiety.

Consider a ThunderShirt
ThunderShirts are a calming wrap that applies gentle, constant pressure to a dog’s torso to help them feel safe and calm. It is best to have a pet test the ThunderShirt a few times prior to the holiday.

Know Pet’s Whereabouts
Do not leave pets unattended in the backyard as the sound of fireworks can send them over the fence or digging to get out. Additionally, unattended food attracts curious pets onto counter tops or in trash cans. Alcohol and many foods found on your dinner plate can be poisonous for pets

Report Pets in Distress
To report signs of animals in distress this summer, please call AHS’ Emergency Animal Medical Technicians™ at 602.997.7585 ext. 2073. For more information on lost or found pets, visit azhumane.org/lost-a-pet.

Foster for the Fourth!
Have some extra space in your heart and your home this holiday weekend? Help AHS open up much-needed kennel space by fostering a pet in need! To become an AHS Foster Hero, visit azhumane.org/foster.