PHOENIX — On average – Maricopa County Animal Care & Control takes in about 45 lost dogs a day. They’re expecting that number to rise considerably as the holiday season ends.
While the world celebrated the new year with fireworks of all kinds, the loud popping, booming and screeching sounds sent many dogs running for cover and getting lost.
“We’re expecting to see a ripple effect over the next couple of days with dogs that maybe got spooked by fireworks,” said Kim Powell, the communication officer with Maricopa County Animal Care & Control.
Animal control agencies from around Maricopa County started bringing in lost dogs during the first hour of the shelter opening for the day. Surprise brought in six pups. Glendale found four lost pooches. One of them was wearing a dress, so there is a good chance she belongs to someone.
“Unfortunately, the majority of the dogs are not microchipped and they’re not wearing a tag or ID or anything on them which makes it difficult to find the owner which makes it very difficult to find the owner,” said Powell.
They’ll have to stay at the shelter which already has 900 dogs.
“We are way overcapacity right now. We don’t have a lot of kennels. Really don’t have any available,” said Powell.
MCACC urges folks to use social media to help find their lost pet or to find the owners.
“Get a picture of your dog out there, a clear picture and where they were last seen. Those cross streets,” said Powell.
To register your lost pet with MCACC, click here. Owners can also visit the shelter in person.
“If you’re in here and they’re not here the first day, come again and come again the next day. Do whatever you got to do to find your lost pet,” said Powell.
No dogs leave the shelter without a microchip and if field crews find a dog with a chip or some form of identification - they will try and return the dog before taking it to the shelter.
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