To those reading this, the premise that fireworks scare dogs might seem obvious, but experience has taught us otherwise. So, if we can save just one dog and owner the trauma that many experience each year at this time, then it will certainly be worth it.
If you doubt our claim that most people don't realize the dangers posed by leaving dogs exposed to fireworks, then just take notice of all the lost dog posters that suddenly appear on telephone poles throughout your area in the days and weeks following the 4th of July this year.
We thought nothing years ago of taking our always well behaved 'Sparky' down to the beach to sit with us during the fireworks display at the lake community where my parents live. Even when she took off around the side of the house at the first crackle and bang, we didn't think much about it. This was a dog that never left the property; she was as reliable as they come. But, when we went to retrieve her and she was no where in site, and as we spent the next several hours trying to find her, the message began to sink in. Dogs are really afraid of the loud noises that fireworks make.
From that point on we started paying attention. While at the City Park watching fireworks, we noticed several people who brought their dogs along to enjoy the festivities. Upon leaving we also noticed at least two of these same people frantically looking for their dogs. It really made us wonder whether the others we had seen were in the same boat.
We started noticing how nervous our dogs get even when we keep them safely in the house, when they hear the fireworks going off in the distance outside. And finally, we noticed all the lost dog posters after the 4th of July.
So, the lesson we want people to realize is simply this… Dogs and 4th of July fireworks don't mix. This is the one-day of the year when your dog is better off safely at home than in your company. Don't assume that a dog on lead is immune, they become terrorized like you have never seen before. Not only is it not worth the risk of trying to keep them under control, but who needs to witness their loving companion experiencing the trauma of shear terror.
This year when you go out to watch 4th of July fireworks, please leave your dog safely confined at home and if you see someone with a dog, please ask them to think about what might happen when the fireworks start?
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· Friends & Pets · Sheltie Tetherball · The Grapevine · Seasonal ·
· Rescue · Sheltie Links · Awards · Contact Us · Site Map ·
© 1999 - 2001 by John E. Rueckert - All Rights Reserved