Refrain from backyard fireworks

Editor:

On July 5, people all around this country will be posting "Lost Dog" notices because their dogs or other pets ran away, scared crazy by neighborhood firecrackers and fireworks. Unfortunately, it will probably continue all weekend. By Monday, July 8, the shelters will be full of the lucky dogs who got found and rescued before they got hit by vehicles or attacked by predators.

I used to think firecrackers were fun too, when I was about 10 years old. Six decades later I now think they're kind of stupid. Big public fireworks displays are cool, because you can choose whether or not to go. But backyard noisemakers indicate to me a level of immaturity that shows no regard for what your neighbors' dogs, cats and even horses experience during these frightening episodes.

Yes, I can try to protect my animals by keeping them completely and safely contained, by drugging them, and by putting special desensitizing devices on them. And I will. But I also hope good neighbors throughout Sanders County will exercise common consideration for each other and refrain from backyard fireworks. Celebrate Independence Day by attending a public fireworks display, waving the flag, and remembering to vote on Nov. 5.

Jan Manning, Trout Creek