Eyewitness News spoke to the nonprofit Deity Animal Rescue team right as they were heading to a shelter in Lancaster.
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"We're kind of working against time here. Especially with the Fourth of July approaching soon and that being a devastating day for animals with the fireworks," said Ellen Dante, founder and CEO of Deity Animal Rescue.
Dante said that July 5 ends ups being one of the largest shelter intake days of the year. Many dogs get alarmed by the holiday fireworks and jump out the window or run away from their yard.
"It actually impacts the dogs that are already in the shelter initially because they start making room for the influx of dogs which means dogs perfectly adoptable dogs are going to be euthanized," said Dante.
This week, Deity Animal Rescue will take home as many dogs as they can into their care.
In the Inland Empire, Yucaipa Animal Placement Society is trying to place 50 puppies in new homes ahead of the holiday.
"We do know that the shelters do expect a few 100 dogs between each shelter this weekend," said Ginger Bryk, operations manager of Yucaipa Animal Placement Society.
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If you already have a furry friend at home here are some tips to keep them safe this holiday weekend:
-- Keep your doors and windows locked
-- Turn on music or the TV to drown out fireworks
-- Keep them in a space they feel safe
-- Make sure they're tagged with your name and number
-- Microchip them
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If you find a stray dog, check the Paws for Life website to find a microchip reader near you.
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