Shelter gives pit bulls patriotic makeovers to boost adoptions

SALT LAKE CITY — The Fourth of July weekend may mean fireworks, barbecues, camping and an all-around good time for most, but it could mean trouble for many of man's best friends.

To help promote animal adoption, pit bulls were dressed in Lady Liberty headbands, miniature Uncle Sam hats, sequined American crowns and red, white and blue leis Tuesday at Salt Lake County Animal Services.

"We know that fireworks holidays get in the most dogs (at the shelter) because dogs get scared of the loud noises," said Melissa Lipani, a campaign coordinator for Best Friends Animal Society. "So we just want to educate people about the precautions they can take to keep their pets safe during the fireworks holidays. (We also want) to get people to come and adopt before the holidays so we can empty out some of these kennels ... for new dogs coming in."

The situation is more dire this year because Salt Lake County Animal Services is filled beyond capacity — before the holiday has even begun. There are more than 160 dogs in 82 kennels, which leaves no room for the 14 new dogs per day that are picked up this time of year. Around Pioneer Day, that number increases to about 25 dogs per day.

"If you've been thinking about getting a dog, it's the perfect time because we're full," Lipani said. "We need to get these guys into good homes."

Best Friends Animal Society and the shelter have teamed up to encourage families to adopt a dog this week. They organized a "Fabulous Fourth" photo shoot to take fun portraits of the pets to go on Facebook and Salt Lake County Animal Services' website, as well as to highlight some of the dogs that have been in the shelter the longest.

For some dogs, especially with their sensitive hearing, the Independence Day festivities are enough to make them panic and flee.

"They see the bright flashes of light and the loud sounds," said Temma Martin, a volunteer with Best Friends Animal Society. "It's so terrifying for them that many of them will dig under fences, break through windows, break chains or do whatever trying to get away."

Cats that roam between home and the outdoors are also vulnerable. The shelter sees an increase in all types of dogs and cats over the holiday.

"All dogs are individuals," Lipani said. "So it really just depends on the dogs, and it has nothing to do with their breed or anything. Some dogs just get more spooked by loud noises."