The Los Angeles Department of Animal Services reminds us that the Fourth of July season is a very difficult time for pets…and for the city shelters that house lost and abandoned animals. Â But there are ways that people like you can make things easier for both the animals and their human helpers during this busy season. Â One of the best is to foster a shelter animal, even for as little as four days over the holiday weekend.
” Every year around the Fourth of July, LA Animal Services shelters fill beyond capacity with terrified lost pets. This means that available shelter space can be the difference between life and death for our shelter guests who have been with us past the required hold period. YOU can make that life-saving difference by fostering for four days or more or adopting.
The loud sounds of July 4th fireworks frighten dogs and cats. If they get out of the house or yard, they run in fear. Then these frightened dogs and cats can’t find their way home and end up at our City shelters. Over the last three years, the shelters took in over 1,000 animals each year between July 2 and July 6. These pets are counting on us to help reunite them with their families.
We need YOUR help right now to create life-saving space in our crowded City shelters.”
Brenda Barnette, LA Animal Services General Manager said, “The Fourth of July holiday is one of the busiest intake periods for municipal shelters. While many people are out celebrating, the shelters will be flooded with scared pets, many of which will never find their way home. Our hope is that animal lovers in Los Angeles will come together to help pets in their community by fostering for four days or more.”
To volunteer as an animal foster parent, you can print an application at LAAnimalServices.com/foster or go to the City animal shelter nearest you and ask for a Foster Volunteer application. Take the completed form to the shelter and they’ll get you started fostering right away. The shelters are open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. They’re closed on Mondays and the Fourth of July. To find the shelter closest to you, visit LAAnimalServices.com/shelters or call (888) 452-7381.
The city and the shelter will appreciate your help…but their heartfelt thanks will be nothing compared to the lifetime of memories and unconditional love you will get from your furry friend. Â And remember, your fostering will save two lives – the one you’ll be caring for…and that of a new stray, who can now find room at the shelter.
