MASON, Mich. — The 4th of July holiday weekend is often the busiest weekend of the year for animal shelters. Dogs are easily stressed by fireworks and can often become frantic and disoriented by the noise, lights, and general commotion. Shelters nationwide see a 30-60% increase in lost pets between July 1st through the 5th. Due to the holiday falling on Thursday this year, shelter staff is anticipating the increase of stray dogs to last through July 8th.
Shelter Director, Jodi LeBombard states “The best thing for pet owners to do during a busy weekend like this is to KEEP THEM IDENTIFIED and keep them inside if possible!”
Personalized ID tags on your pets, and dog licenses on your dog’s collar, are a great way to make sure your pets gets home quickly if they were to escape. Ingham County Animal Control & Shelter in Mason sells dog licenses as well as ID tags. Personalized pet ID tags can also be made at many local retailers. Microchips are also extremely helpful to make sure your pet is returned safely. Please make sure that all information associated with those forms of ID are current, including living address and current phone numbers
Additionally, ICAC is asking animal owners to keep pets home and indoors. Give them a place to hide and feel safe. Having a radio or television on to mask the sound of the fireworks can also help. Distracting your pet with other things, like a fun shew toy or bone can help keep their mind off the noise and commotion. If your pet does manage to escape, call the animal shelter with your information, and absolutely come down to the shelter to look for them.
For more information on discounted adoption fees or other programs at Ingham County Animal Control, contact the shelter at 517-676-8370, visit the ICAC website at ac.ingham.org, or visit the shelter at 600 Buhl St. in Mason. Ingham County Animal Control is open Monday through Saturday from 10:30-5pm, and open late on Wednesdays until 6pm. The shelter is closed on county observed holidays, including Thursday, July 4th.
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