Just like New Year's, the 4th of July isn't exactly a holiday for dogs. In fact, the rackets of fireworks can even make the day a nightmare for them. Luckily, many people are now skipping the 4th of July fireworks to comfort the scared shelter dogs.
Pups are sensitive to loud noises. And during these fireworks, our adorable, furry family members cower and hide under the beds. They're terrified that they're going to die.
It's even worse for shelter dogs who don't have homes. So, we need to ask ourselves, is our fireworks enjoyment worth the suffering of our beloved dogs.
One shelter has a brilliant idea to help these homeless dogs relax and calm through the blasting holiday.
Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC) have created "Calming the Canines," a new Independence Day tradition.
This event requires volunteers to spare some time out of their day to spend with the homeless dogs. The activities of the day involve petting and calming the frightened pups through these hectic celebrations.
The shelter's development director, Ben Swann, said in a press release:
"It was overwhelming to see how the community responded. It really helped spread our message that MCACC is here to help."
Writing about her experience last year, Amy Engel, who runs AZ Dawg Saverz Facebook page, said:
"Some people sang to them, some people read to them, some people just sat there and gave treats!"
"It was so, so awesome because the dogs absolutely love the attention and were focused on the people and not the fireworks going on outside."
When over 300 people spend a whole day with adorable pups in need of comfort and love, the volunteers will also have their hearts won.
So, the benefit of the "Calming the Canines" tradition goes beyond the expectation of the participants.
The MCACC said:
"Many participants developed lasting relationships with the shelter, returning to provide foster care, adopt a pet, or volunteer."
The "Calming Companions" initiative has encouraged many shelters to host similar events. After last year's event, the Maricopa CountyAnimal Care and Control shelter thanked its volunteers on Facebook.
The group wrote:
"Because of your kindness, many more shelters are planning on participating next year. So I hope you will reach around and pat yourself on the back. We remain very grateful to all of you and hope you will consider joining us as 'regular' volunteers."
The shelter also suggested some pointers to those who got inspired to start "Calm the Canines" events.
For instance, people were asked to bring folding chairs or blankets to sit on and to allow the animals to approach them calmly.
