Community Corner

Letter to the Editor: Please, No Fireworks

"Aren't we capable of celebrating and and have fun without setting off explosives?" A letter to the editor from Jo Tyler.

I realize that kids (and some adults) think it's just innocent fun to set off fireworks around town in the weeks surrounding the 4th of July. But not only is doing so illegal and dangerous, it is truly inconsiderate of the pets - and other animals - so many of us love. The violent noise of fireworks is terrifying to most dogs and cats (not to mention birds, foxes, squirrels, rabbits, coyotes and other wildlife.) Every year, when people in the neighborhood start setting off illegal explosives to "celebrate," our pets run for cover - hiding under tables or in closets, shaking with fear.

This year, on July 3rd, we let our elderly dog out to do her business just before bedtime. It was quiet, when suddenly, not 30 feet from us, someone set off a large booming firework. Our dog, who has heart problems, collapsed in the driveway, completely terrified. Her eyes rolled back in her head and her legs were kicking like she was having a seizure. We scooped her up and ran her inside away from the noise, but her heart continued to race and her breathing was labored for the next hour as we continued to hear BOOM after BOOM coming from different areas of the neighborhood. We are fortunate that she did not pass away that night, it was that bad. Please, people, consider the impact your actions have on others. Illegal fireworks might provide a quick "thrill" - but they also kill and injure children, cause fires, and terrify animals. Aren't we capable of celebrating and and have fun without setting off explosives? 
- J. Tyler


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