Respect our pets: Skip the July 4th fireworks | READER COMMENTARY

“It is a disturbing display of ego that the human desire to light up the quiet night sky with explosions continues despite the serious effects it has on vulnerable people, other species and our shared environment (not to mention the cost when governments are footing the bill).”

This observation by Dr. Kendra Coulter is even more distressing when we consider that Dr. Coulter is a leading expert on animals in work, animal protection organizations and policy, and gender equity.

Fireworks, while exciting and awe inspiring, are dangerous and can cause injuries — from shock to blindness, amputations and even death; high concentrations of smoke and powdered metallic salts that create brilliant colors also cause extensive air pollution, leaving dangerous toxins, harmful chemicals and smoke in the air for days (“Fireworks and drones to light up Baltimore sky for city’s Fourth of July celebration,” June 13).

In addition to physical harm, fireworks can cause structural and vehicle fires. But more concerning and devastating, especially because this is completely avoidable, fireworks can also cause distress. Those most affected include children, the elderly, individuals with respiratory or cardiac conditions, people with autism, epilepsy, and Alzheimer’s disease, those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other vulnerable populations, including animals.

The reaction of animals to the sound of fireworks is similar to that of PTSD in humans. However, the effect may be more harmful for animals since they do not have the ability to rationalize their anxiety or the tools to help them respond to their fear, resulting in a more intense form of terror.

A meme circulating on Facebook urges: “Just a thought! Instead of buying fireworks buy two cans of pet food for a shelter animal. Don’t make a noise, make a difference!”

You can learn more about the dark side of fireworks by visiting the Farm Animal Rights Movement’s FARM Buzz at thefarmbuzz.com/fourthofjulyfireworks/.

— Shemirah Brachah, Bethesda

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