Local animal shelters experienced a high number of intakes Thursday as a result of Fourth of July fireworks, according to Brazos Animal Shelter employees.

The days after Independence Day are usually busy for local shelters, and this year was no exception. Eleven animals were brought to the Brazos Animal Shelter Thursday morning.

“Fireworks make them jump over the fence, then they run away,” said Kathy Bice, Brazos Animal Shelter Executive Director. “Animal control brings them here and we keep them safe while we try to find the owner.”

Brazos Animal Shelter employees say most stray animals are young and frisky, but many of the pets found after July 4th are older and housebroken.

Misti Luce, a College Station resident, found a dachshund in the Quail Run Estates subdivision after the fireworks show Wednesday.

“I put an ad on Craigslist, I fed her, and put her in my one of my extra kennels,” said Luce.

The Brazos Animal Shelter encourages anyone who has lost a pet to check with nearby veterinarians and shelters as soon as possible. Shelter employees say they hope to return every lost pet to its owner, but unclaimed animals will be put up for adoption after 3 days.