“You’re much better than fireworks. They’re all over in a moment, and you’re going to stay… Besides, fireworks are noisy, and they make too much smoke.” ― Kate Ross, Cut to the Quick
can remember times when I’d grab a blanket and a basket filled with food and drink and head to a local field or park to listen to music and wait with friends for 4th of July fireworks to begin. I enjoyed the fireworks display and I still like them…at least I think I do but it’s been years since I’ve actually had the leisure to watch a sizeable show. As most of you know we have a dog, Maggie, who experiences severe anxiety. Fireworks are hell for her and I’m sure if she could communicate what she felt she say, pure terror and that she’s going to die.
The 4th can be an anxious time for many pets. In fact, more pets go missing on July 4th than any other time of the year and many pounds and pet rescue organizations report the 5th to be extra busy with those same lost pets being brought in by strangers who find them. Sadly, some never make it back home.
We try to find someplace that prohibits fireworks or we keep Maggie inside and I stay with her. There’s been more than one 4th (and New Years) when she and I listen to music while she’s trembling with fear in the dark corner of a closet.
So yes, I’m that pet lover. Sure I miss going out and partaking of the celebrations and I do my share of grumbling about it but if I’m honest Maggie’s “much better than fireworks. They’re all over in a moment,” and she’s given me 11 years+ of devotion and unconditional love.
So please enjoy the holiday and if you’re setting off your own personal fireworks be aware and considerate of those nearby, of your neighbors and any pets they may have.
Happy 4th of July…Happy Birthday, USA…No Tanks required! :-o
#NMP
Just this evening Kathy and I were listening to all of the fireworks and thought of you and Maggie. We hope that you were able to enjoy a relatively quiet evening, free of fireworks and tanks! :)
There were plenty of fireworks nearby but we survived thanks to getting ahead of the curve with Maggie meds and some loud soothing cover music. Now it’s a matter of being ready for the next several nights as people use up those fireworks they didn’t fire off on the 4th. Yelp, not our first rodeo!