The exciting sound of non-threatening explosions heard from a firework flying up in the sky brings joy and wonder to mind. Of course, the skies fill with the lights. They sparkle on the 4th of July. Nothing makes a household happier than being able to cook some meat on their backyard grill and catching up with loved ones and having a spirit of togetherness while watching fireworks light up the sky.
In Arizona, however, residents celebrate this vital part of America’s history by visiting local animal shelters and comforting them while the fireworks display happens.
We all seen stressed a dog could be. As the fireworks start to ramp up and they hear noises. They will either coil up in a corner or shift to excessive barking. With this information in mind, Jose Santiago sends out a special request to his volunteers.
Please visit the animals in both shelters of the state. Santiago is the Public Information Officer at the Animal Care and Control at Maricopa County.
The purpose of his request is to have somebody at each dog’s side during this stressful and scary 4th of July celebration.
This request brings more than 100 people to comfort the dogs and lend a hand. They reassure them showing they don't have to be afraid.
Young Kids decide to bring storybooks to read aloud. Some people with musical talent will bring guitars or ukuleles. Others sing the dogs a relaxing tune. Some offer reassuring and warm strokes as they touch and pet them. The kids will help the dogs get through the night sleeping comfortably.
In an interview, Santiago states that animals can feel stressed when they are in shelters. Add the loud noises that come from the fireworks, and it makes it worse. The dogs can be quite anxious. That is why Santiago and his team do what they can to help. They try to make the dogs feel calmer during these festivities.
Although both shelters permit visitors walking and playing with dogs on a typical day, shelter staff know that the kennels are the safest location for a dog. Extra visitors and loud noises combined for a frightening evening. Some dogs are afraid or react in unique ways when hearing fireworks. One group trigger their flight response. They may run loose in the neighborhood and probably cause trouble.
The primary purpose is to put the dogs into a relaxing state despite the chaos outside. Officer Santiago also hopes that the volunteers will consider adopting the dogs. A double purpose.
Santiago adds that he is very thankful for everyone volunteering during this time. It is a community effort to help dogs. He knows that the team is also looking for more volunteers at the shelter.