The Fourth of July just passed -- and after an
incident with fireworks and a speeding car, so did
a sweet dog who should have had his entire life in front of him.Santi was a 5-year-old working K-9 living with his handler and partner in Fresno County, California. His handler was keeping him inside that night because
fireworks were going off in his neighborhood and he knew they scared Santi.But of course, at some point, Santi needed to go outside to use the bathroom. When his handler let him out into the backyard, a nearby firework exploded, sending Santi into a frenzy.
In his panic to escape the terrifying sounds and sites of the explosions, Santi jumped the fence and ran into the street. He was
struck by a vehicle that fled from the scene, and his handler found him
crumpled in the street. Santi was rushed to a vet, but sadly
he did not survive his injuries.Sign the petition to demand better for Santi, and all animals affected by fireworks!To be specific,
the fireworks that scared Santi were illegal fireworks being set off by people in the area -- not legal, city-sanctioned displays that have proper preparation, safety precautions, and warnings so people can prepare.
In California, illegal fireworks are a
huge problem. According to the state's fire marshal,
"the state typically seizes about 250,000 pounds of illegal fireworks each year." But still, countless illegal fireworks are set off every year.
Fireworks, especially those that are set off in neighborhoods and in unapproved locations, are hell for people and animals alike. Every year,
countless pet cats and dogs escape their homes in a blind panic during fireworks displays -- and like Santi, many never make it home again. Poor wildlife like birds, deer, foxes, and more are also victimized by the explosions, left terrified and confused and even injured.
Illegal fireworks are rarely handled properly, resulting in fires and injuries to human beings. People with PTSD are also victimized by fireworks, reminding them of past events and trauma.
Obviously, illegal fireworks have overwhelming negative impacts on communities and animals. That's why we must encourage California to crack down on them, in honor of Santi and all other animals' lives that have been lost because of these illicit explosions.
Sign the petition asking California State Fire Marshal Chief Daniel Berlant and Governor Gavin Newsom to collaborate on real solutions to quell the use of illegal fireworks in California!