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The fourth of July is a holiday that makes Americans proud to be just that - Americans. People will celebrate the occasion at picnics and swim parties, with the grand finale being fireworks. The loud booming displays of colorful fire in the sky, is something children and adults enjoy. But for our companion dogs and other animals, these noises can result in life threatening reactions.
Each year during the 4th of July, animal shelters across the country see an increase in the number of animals they receive.
Ken White, executive director for the Peninsula Humane Society says in his blog, "Typically, the few days following the Fourth are among the busiest for animal shelters, responding to reports of frightened, injured and lost animals, as well as their anxious people. Please keep your pets safe and secure and most definitely inside and, just in case, make sure that they are always wearing current identification."
The Humane Society of the United States provides this list to help keep our dogs safe this Saturday night:
* Do not take your dogs to a fireworks display
* Keep your dogs indoors in a sheltered, quiet area.
* If you know your dog becomes distressed by loud noises, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th.
* Never leave your dog unattended outdoors, even in a fenced in environment.
* Make sure your dog is wearing identification tags in case they do become lost.

Consider adopting one of these fur folks as a true celebration for the 4th of July:
Marin Humane Society
Reeses
6-month-old
Spayed Female, 12lbs
Jack Russell Terrier Mix
When Reeses looks at you with those big brown eyes, you just want to melt. She loves to be petted. Reeses would love to learn to do tricks, and is likely to make her new guardians laugh with her antics. She can be quite affectionate - as well as bouncy, energetic, feisty...and she barks at dogs, children, and pedestrians. However, it's not difficult to direct Reese's attention elsewhere when she gets alarmed, and if her home is not one that looks out on the world, we think she'll calm down substantially. With the right owner, she'll be a super pet!
Ideal Home: Best in a home with children 16 years or older

Smokey
5-year-old
Neutered Male, 9lbs
Poodle Mix
What a great little dog! Smokey is lively, smart, and eager to learn new behaviors. This small dog is full of energy and needs sufficient daily exercise to tire him out both mentally and physically. Although Smokey does enjoy a good cuddle in your lap, he would much rather be entertaining you with tricks you have taught him. He should get regular grooming. He generally acts appropriately towards other dogs, but careful introductions to dogs would be best. Smokey is looking for a family who will enjoy his intelligence, sense of humor, and joie de vivre!
Ideal Home: Best in a home with children 6 years or older

San Francisco SPCA
Zuky (A07907551)
This 7-year old German Shepherd is a sweet, loving, mature lady who is looking for a mellow home where she can settle in and be comfortable. Zuky has been moving around a lot lately, so she can’t wait to find a forever person who will be committed to her for life. She has lived successfully with cats in the past, so if you are looking for a cat-friendly dog, she might be the one for you. Zuky’s ideal adopter would have recent dog guardian experience.
Meet all our wonderful dogs at www.sfspca.org, or visit them in person at Maddie’s Adoption Center, 250 Florida Street; open daily 11 AM-6PM (except Wednesday, 1-6PM). Plenty of free parking is available. 415.522.3500.