TUSTIN, Calif. (July 3, 2019) – OC Animal Care is making it easier for pet owners to be reunited with their lost pets over the Fourth of July holiday with the belief that by helping lost pets find their way home sooner, it will create enough space for additional incoming stray animals.

Due to the noisy celebrations, Independence Day has consistently brought in more than double the typical amount of stray animals. The loud pops and bangs are known to frighten anxious pets who panic and try to flee, only to find themselves lost and sometimes injured. OC Animal Care asks that all pet owners stay vigilant as they enter what are historically the busiest days for animal shelters across the country.

Although the facility will be closed to the general public for adoptions, OC Animal Care will remain open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. for pet owners to find their furry family member who may have been brought into the facility. To be able to take their pet home, owners must bring identification and proof of ownership, including current pictures of their pet and veterinary records.

If the lost pet is not at OC Animal Care, be prepared with updated photos to use for flyers and identify the shelter facilities that serve the surrounding area. Check into and use Nextdoor and Facebook to post about lost pets. In addition, download the OC Animal Care PetTrack App, and check the OC Animal Care website for pictures of lost pets brought into the shelter.

Pet owners should verify that microchips contain updated contact information and that tags are properly fastened. The shelter continues to offer free pet tags through July 3 for anyone needing to update their contact information.

In the case of finding a lost pet, use caution as frightened pets often become
panicked or defensive. If possible, try to contain the pet in a safe, enclosed area, and report the pet to the appropriate animal control agency.

For more tips on how to keep furry family members safe over the holiday, visit the OC Animal Care website at www.ocpetinfo.com.

OC Animal Care is the largest municipal animal shelter in Orange County. It services 14 cities and takes in over 18,000 animals each year. Last year, the Board of Supervisors approved a strategic plan outlining the progressive programs and policies that will guide OC Animal Care to achieve its vision of a safe and compassionate community for all.