Elizabethton/Carter County Animal Shelter hopes to ‘clear the shelter’ before the 4th of July

ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. (WJHL) — The Elizabethton/Carter County Animal Shelter is at capacity with nearly 60 dogs or puppies filling the shelter. Shelter Director Shannon Posada told News Channel 11 on Tuesday that she knows more dogs are coming with the 4 ^th of July just days away.

“That’s when we see the biggest intake of stray dogs, and that’s because some are so frightened by the fireworks and they just get really scared and they run off into other people’s property or homes,” Posada said.

An after-hours “Clear the Shelter” event was held Tuesday evening from 4-7 p.m. to encourage adoptions. The event offered extended hours since the shelter normally closes at 4:30 p.m. during the week. Adoption fees were also reduced to $25.

A local veterinarian said Independence Day can be scary for dogs and their owners as many animals will run as a natural instinct when sacred. Dr. Rachel Fogg of Robinson Animal Hospital in Johnson City explained dogs are more sensitive to lights and sounds than humans and don’t understand what’s happening during fireworks.

“The most important thing to do is to keep them inside as much as possible,”Dr. Fogg said. ‘Even pets that are familiar with their homes or yards, a lot of them will still run.”

Dr. Fogg told News Channel 11 there are things people can do to keep their pets safe during the fireworks:

• Take them on their walk or bathroom break early before the fireworks begin.
• Ask their veterinarian for some calming medications.
• Provide a safe quiet space in the home during the fireworks.
• Use a “Thunder Shirt”, or a snug sweater or even put a blanket over them to make them feel safe.

On Wednesday, the shelter will be open during its regular hours of 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. It will be closed on Thursday for Independence Day but will open again on Friday as it’s one of the busiest days of the year.

Posada says there are many great dogs available for adoption.

“We have dogs that love to walk on a leash, very people friendly, dog friendly, some that are cat friendly,” Posada said. “We have a good variety so if you’re looking for a dog, puppy, cat or kitten, I’m sure we have one to fill that spot in your home.”

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