Duncan - Most people don't realize how much suffering fireworks can cause to animals, particularly horses.
Horses have acute hearing and can pick up vibrations. The unfamiliar sounds and vibrations can be very frightening and cause a horse to panic. Horses are prey animals with instinctual behaviors that make them very aware of their surroundings. Horses can respond unpredictably to unfamiliar sights and sounds. They have tremendous power with quick reflexes when their flights instinct is triggered. RUN NOW! - LOOK LATER! is the usual formula for a horse's sense of safety.It is my hope that you might consider this when you are planning to light fireworks. Not all horses are bothered by fireworks. But for those that can't cope, the results can be catastrophic The potential to cause injuries and extensive property damage can be the outcome of a horse's flight-survival instinct.One of the reasons fireworks are allowed on specified nights is to allow animal owners to prepare. I have to make sure my horse is tranquilized in a safe place. I have to stay up late that night. When fireworks are on other nights I have no warning. Therefore a very dangerous situation. Respect the rules if you even care a little for animals.Fireworks on specified nights only and recommended for backyard use only.My intention is not to stop the fun, just please be aware of the outdoor livestock that suffer immensely with fireworks. With a lot of outdoor livestock that really suffer with it, just think a little before lighting off your fireworks; you may be enjoying them but there are lots of your neighbours that are panicking with crazy animals in distress.Please carefully assess the risk to people, livestock and property that the types of fireworks will have. Can't we all respect one another?Lynn WangDuncan