Maricopa animal shelter ‘Calming Companions’ celebrate July 4th the right way

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In Phoenix, Arizona, the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control celebrated July 4th the right way. An experimental program, “Calming Companions” was able to take the bang out of those fireworks going off some place close. Who can imagine a dog already stressed out, after having to live in a strange place with strange people, clanging bowls and whole lot of barking in a shelter? And then to make it worse, the July 4th fireworks are exploding nearby.

The Maricopa Animal Care and Control decided to try something different this year, and what a success it was.  The shelter opened their doors for the public to come and help the animals stay calm. Shelter staff member, Jose Santiago posted a video on the shelter’s Facebook page and received an amazing response.

“Calming Companions” volunteers were invited to stop by either of the two Maricopa County shelters on Wednesday from 7:30 to 10:00. They were given a quick safety orientation before spending time with the dogs and cats. No one was allowed to take the animals out of their kennels, and were given the “dos and don’ts” about shelter safety rules.

People brought their chairs, blankets, books to read to the dogs and even music. Staff members added treats, toys and games to keep the pets occupied and their minds off of the loud noises outside.

This was the reaction:

“Amy Engel  Ever thought about bringing your dog to crowded places? even worse, crowded places with fireworks? I promise you dogs don’t like it. Tonight was the first year Maricopa County animal Shelter presented “Comfort the Canines” …approx. 200 people came to help the pooches. 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.compassionate people.”

Check it out. Maybe do this in your own community next year?

https://www.facebook.com/MaricopaCountyAnimalCareandControl/videos/10155519039112374/

How about this guy playing some music? (“You Ain’t Nothing But A Hound Dog”)

https://www.facebook.com/MaricopaCountyAnimalCareandControl/videos/10155519030927374/

Isn’t this just proof positive that angels really do walk the Earth?

Why not check out the awesome dogs and cats available for adoption. Not one of them will ever call you a bad singer either!

(Photos via Facebook Amy Engel)

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12 COMMENTS

  1. What a wonderful program and I am sure it will continue next year. Should be something other shelters should consider on the 4th of July. Seems to have been a huge success and all for the animals (dogs & cats too).

  2. Love and blessings to you all! Hope animal shelters “worldwide” follow this beautiful heartwarming 4th of July celebration! We will help spread the word!

  3. […] Around 200 caring people came out to the event, visiting either of the control’s shelters. These wonderful volunteers brought their own chairs and blankets to sit on as they read, played music, and entertained the dogs. Staff at the shelters provided treats, toys, and games that helped keep the dogs and cats occupied, and the joint effort led to a great experience for everyone involved. […]

  4. […] Around 200 caring people came out to the event, visiting either of the control’s shelters. These wonderful volunteers brought their own chairs and blankets to sit on as they read, played music, and entertained the dogs. Staff at the shelters provided treats, toys, and games that helped keep the dogs and cats occupied, and the joint effort led to a great experience for everyone involved. […]

  5. […] Around 200 caring people came out to the event, visiting either of the control’s shelters. These wonderful volunteers brought their own chairs and blankets to sit on as they read, played music, and entertained the dogs. Staff at the shelters provided treats, toys, and games that helped keep the dogs and cats occupied, and the joint effort led to a great experience for everyone involved. […]

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