We normally view Independence Day as a day of celebration and honor for our country. For us, it's a time of reflection on the work that we do to serve our country. The 4th of July is a bittersweet holiday for me as it serves as a memorial to my dog Peanut who I lost around this time nearly 14 years ago, but also as a marker of my journey into the world of animal welfare and rescue. My love for my darling Peanut is what gave me the push inspiration to help in my country. To speak for those who can't speak for themselves. To work tirelessly to ensure they don't suffer any longer. To save lives that need saving.

This year we ask you to do three things during this holiday weekend.

The first is to reflect and act on the pet abandonment crisis that is happening right here, right now in our very own country. Many families are unable to keep their animal friends due to the continued economic crisis. Companion animals are being surrendered to shelters at an alarming rate. Please contact us to learn how you can help LBWF and your community during these hard times.

The second thing we ask of you is to protect your beloved pet by following our 4th of July tips listed below so they too, don't become a statistic. Many of you may not know, but this is the highest kill weekend at shelters all across the country as they prepare to make room for all the stray animals who have run away due to the fireworks. The first dogs to be killed are owner surrenders because it is a guarantee no one is coming for them. HELP US HELP THEM - SAVE A LIFE THIS WEEKEND! We have so many wonderful dogs for adoption who need homes so we can continue to rescue others in need.

The third thing we ask so humbly of you, is to make a much needed donation in honor of our great country and our animal companions. Times have been tough and we are struggling to stay afloat. We can not do this work without you. Please DONATE today.

Protect Your Pet this 4th of July

Follow these precautions to ensure a safe and happy 4th of July:

· Resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays.If possible, stay with the animal during the majority of the fireworks. They often react more intensely to loud sounds and flashes of lights when humans are not around.

· Keep your pet indoors! Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.

· Do not leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects-even death-in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.

· If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.

· Always keep proper identification securely fastened to a dog's collars in case it gets out. Consider talking to your veterinarian about implanting a universal microchip. Make sure your veterinary hospital and animal shelter have your correct contact information in their database.

· Keep them away from the front and back doors. They may be under significant stress, which could result in unnecessary injury to others or cause them to dart out the door and become lost.

· Create a special area or "den" in your home where dogs can feel safe. A properly introduced crate or kennel can be a calming refuge.

· Some dogs become destructive when frightened. If you don't use a crate, be sure to remove items from the room that they could destroy or would hurt them if chewed.

· Keep windows and curtains closed to reduce noise and bright flashes.

· Turn on a TV or radio at normal volume to distract them from loud noises.

· Consider hiring a pet sitter to stay with the animal while you are away from home.

As many are aware, we are a 501 c. 3 non profit organization. Every penny helps abandoned or abused animals in need right now! We can't stress to you how important your donations are in helping us on our important journey of saving lives & making a difference. If you are able, please make a much needed donation to Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation & help us do more for the animals. Ask us about sponsoring a LBWF rescue dog in need. Your contributions are the only way we can continue to help those who can't speak for themselves.

"Together, WE can make a difference!"

Write to us or Mail a Donation:

10061 Riverside Dr.

Suite 1003

Toluca Lake, California 91506