The University of Florida has just announced their plan to shoot off fireworks at every night home football game. Not only will they be shooting fireworks at the end of each game, but during the games as well, presumably after every touchdown or big play. There are seven home games this season (too early to know how many will be at night but the first one will be on September 1).
Fireworks are loud and are frightening to pets and the elderly, especially when they happen without warning. The American Veterinary Medical Association has stated that fireworks "can be frightening and even dangerous for animals." Not knowing exactly when these fireworks will happen will place an extra burden on pet owners who will be unable to time their pets' outdoor needs. Some of these football games can go late into the night, increasing the fear factor for people who are sleeping or unaware of the University's plan.
According to the Pet Poison Helpline, "Fireworks are dangerous to pets in several ways. First, the loud noise of fireworks can result in severe stress, fear, and anxiety. Secondly, when unused fireworks are ingested, they are poisonous to pets. When ingested, pets can develop gastrointestinal issues like vomiting, a painful abdomen, and bloody diarrhea. Pets ingesting large amounts can suffer tremors or seizures, along with acute kidney failure, bone marrow changes, shallow breathing and jaundice."
A quick Google search confirms that July 5th is the busiest day for animal shelters because animals are spooked by the 4th of July fireworks and run away in fear. According to Dogtime.com, staff members and volunteers at animal shelters all across the country prepare for July 5, the busiest day of the year at many if not all shelters nationwide.
Fireworks are also a problem for those suffering with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). According to Dr. Spencer Eth, professor of psychiatry at the University of Miami and Chief of Mental Health at the Miami VA Healthcare System, "For veterans with PTSD, fireworks can trigger flashbacks, or feelings of panic and dread."
In an effort to keep our community and our pets safe, I have askedg the University to rethink their plan to shoot off fireworks at home night football games. Unfortunately, they do not think these concerns are valid enough to halt their plan.
We already endure fireworks during the 4th of July festivities and Homecoming; we don't need more nights of fear for pets and people. Please consider signing my petition to end this unneccessary and potentially dangerous policy before it begins.
