For Their Sakes ‘4get’ the Fireworks!

For many Americans, the Fourth of July means consuming copious amounts of barbecue and beer and watching fireworks displays. But for animals and those with PTSD, thunderous explosions cause shock, terror, and even injury or death.

Desperate to escape the thunderous booms of the fireworks, even the coolest cats will scatter, and the most docile dogs will dig, chew on, and claw at their surroundings in an effort to break free from their homes and run for the hills. Dogs have been known to crash through windows and then run, terrified, through their neighborhoods. Sometimes, they end up lost or are hit by cars, but you can help prevent this.

Let others know that fireworks are harmful to animals by sharing this information with friends, family, and neighbors, and talking to decision-makers in your area about alternatives to loud, booming displays that frighten animals and trigger symptoms in those suffering from PTSD. Silent fireworks and cutting-edge, visually dazzling laser or drone shows are safe alternatives to loud explosions, and they’re just as awe-inspiring!.

Many cities around the country have already banned fireworks, and with your help, your town can join this compassionate list! Call your legislators, write a letter to a local newspaper, and share this information on your city’s social media pages to make a real difference.*

To help animals who suffer for 151 days in Niagara Falls, Canada, take action on our alert to automatically send an email to the Niagara Falls Tourism Board, asking them to implement compassionate alternatives.

* You can use our sample letter below, but remember that it is always more effective to use your own words!

For this year’s 4th of July celebrations, please cancel fireworks displays permanently and use alternatives such as lasers, drone shows, or silent fireworks. Not only are traditional fireworks harmful to the environment, but they also distress noise-sensitive residents, including those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), companion animals, and wildlife, who are repeatedly traumatized by the blasts.

It’s well documented that explosions from fireworks frighten wildlife and trigger stress, disorientation, and anxiety. Dogs and cats often panic and try to flee, or become lost or hit by cars during fireworks displays. Some animals even die outright from fright or strangle themselves on their chains while trying desperately to escape the noise. Veterans and others suffering from PTSD can be deeply disturbed by the sound of the explosives and the smell of gunpowder.

No one deserves to be traumatized by fireworks for even one night. By switching to silent fireworks, drone shows, or laser light shows, you can still offer a fun celebration that is safe and respectful of all residents.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.