HUNTSVILLE – As residents make plans to ring in 2025, Huntsville Animal Services urges residents to consider offering a safe, quiet space for a furry friend.

While festive for humans, fireworks can be a source of extreme stress for pets, particularly dogs. By fostering, you can provide a temporary safe haven and reduce the anxiety animals feel during the celebrations.

Even a short-term foster placement can significantly improve a dog’s well-being and increase its likelihood of being adopted.

“Many dogs are sensitive to the loud and sudden noises caused by fireworks,” Animal Services Director John Fischer said. “By fostering, you can help an animal feel safe while also experiencing the joy of companionship. It’s a win-win for both the dogs and our community.”

Potential fosters must complete an application. They must also be 21 years of age or older and provide proof of identification. If you lease/rent, landlord approval is required prior to fostering a pet.

A full list of available pets can be found here.

Animal Services is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Animal Services will be closed Wednesday for the New Year’s holiday.

Call 256-883-3782, visit //HuntsvilleAL.gov/Animal or visit their Facebook page to learn more.