Take a queue from the Comforting Companions initiative, instead of lighting fireworks this year.
The Comforting Companions initiative is a fantastic campaign started by the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control in Arizona. The shelter asked people to spend their time during the 4th of July holiday season cuddling some dogs instead of bursting fireworks.
The animals loved the attention
Several people turned up to “chill” with the dogs, and provided them comfort and affection. The dogs were thrilled and did not have to focus on the fireworks. Fireworks are a common tradition in the United States on the fourth of July.
“Some people sang to them, some people read to them, some people just sat there and gave treats!” says shelter worker Amy Engel.
Amy Engel, a shelter worker in the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control shelter, was really happy with the number of volunteers who showed up. “Some people sang to them, some people read to them, some people just sat there and gave treats!”, she says of the experience.
Fireworks are harmful for dogs (and humans)
Dogs cannot stand fireworks. They already have extremely sensitive hearing. They can be provoked and startled when they hear loud crackers.
The most moving part is that many shelters soon followed suit, and began initiatives similar to the Comforting Companions initiative by Maricopa. What if we cuddled some puppies instead of playing with fire?
For advice, stories, and general tips about dogs, visit VOSD.
Source: Good News Network
