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Shelters
across the US are reportedly overpacked with animals who fled during Fourth Of July
fireworks – while others arrived at their death.
Overpacked
Not an
uncommon phenomenon, Bradshaw Animal Shelter in Sacramento California reports a ‘dramatic influx’ of domestic animals around the holiday.
Similarly, Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter in
Texas makes special preparations each year in anticipation of the intake spike.
‘Fear’
Misty Valenta, of the Texas-based shelter, offered an explanation
for the trend.
She said: “Mostly dogs run out of fear of fireworks, or
a family is having a celebration.
“There are people walking in and out of the house or in and
out of a gate, and they slip out – all accidental things, but things that can
be avoided if we take precautions.”
Fireworks
The animals are reportedly being scared by both small and large firework displays.
Beck Curtis – who had to retrieve her companion animal from a
shelter July 5 – said: “This was the worst year ever for illegal fireworks.
“They’ve been rattling the windows and setting off car alarms
all week.”
‘Compassionate’ alternative
Conversely, the Canadian town of Banff opted for what was
described as ‘pyrotechnics show’ or ‘quiet fireworks’ on Canada Day – which lands
on July 1.
Because of this, animal rights organization PETA awarded the
skiing hotspot a ‘Compassionate Town Award’ announced this week.
Regarding the move, the organization’s president, Ingrid Newkirk said: “PETA is calling on cities around the
world to follow Banff’s lead and switch to breathtaking quieter pyrotechnics displays
that offer all the flash without the bang of traditional fireworks.”
