4th of July hours and Safety Tips

The Humane Society of Utah’s Independence and Pioneer Holiday Hours: 

Sunday, 7/4/21 Independence Day – Adoptions open 10-7, all other shelter departments closed

Observed Monday, 7/5/21- Adoptions open 12-5, all other departments closed.

Saturday, 7/24/21 Pioneer Day – Adoptions open 12-5, all other shelter departments closed.

Observed Friday, 7/23 Adoptions open 10-7, all other shelter departments closed.

The July 4 and 24 holidays bring fun, food, and fireworks that can cause harm to pets. Unfortunately, there is an increase in the number of pets that go missing due to fearful reactions from the loud noises, the smell of sulfur, and bright lights from fireworks. The best tip is to prevent your pet from getting lost in the first place. Please do not take your pet with you to watch fireworks, and do not leave them unattended outside during parties or firework activities. If your pet goes missing on one of these holidays, please check with your local municipal animal shelter.

 

The Humane Society of Utah shares the following safety concerns and tips to pet owners during these holiday celebrations.

• Keep pets in a safe area during holiday parties. Ask your guests not to feed your pet any food other than their pre-approved treats and to be mindful that they do not escape the house or yard when people come and go. Party foods such as grapes, raisins, garlic, onions, guacamole, chicken wings, cooked bones, chocolate, Xylitol (artificial sweetener common in sugar-free foods), and alcohol are all harmful to your pets.
• Make sure your pets have current identification. We highly recommended that your pet is microchipped in addition to wearing an ID collar in case fear causes them to bolt. Be sure to keep your contact information updated.
• Keep your pet safely away from firework activity. For pets usually kept outdoors, bring them inside during firework activity. Try to feed and walk your dog before fireworks begin.
• Prepare the house. Keep some lights on to calm your pet. Dampen the noise by closing doors, windows, curtains and keeping the TV or calm music playing.
• Do a follow-up assessment. Your pet may remain anxious even after the firework activity ends. If your pet is stressed, keep them inside overnight. Check the yard to collect fireworks and party items before letting your pets back outside.