We did it.
We survived the 4th of July.
I’m not saying that to brag as if we drank ourselves silly, ate ourselves into a food coma, or survived travel, but I’m saying it because we survived fireworks.
There are mixed feelings on admitting (for some) that fireworks are a trigger for veterans. I’ve read both sides of the “combat veteran lives here please be cautious” sign debate. I’ve also cradled a veteran in my arms as he is in misery to sleep because it sounds too much like Baghdad.
I came across an article (thanks, Tally!) about silent fireworks to help animals and veterans with PTSD. Although this is in Italy, what a treat this would be for those who really struggle with the 4th, and especially those fireworks that may sound like a bomb or an explosion.
in Collecchio, a town in the province of Parma, the fireworks atre silent (required by law since 2015) out of respect for the animal population. Could you imagine watching the beautiful colors and shapes across the sky in silence, or rather, just accompanied by the “oohs” and “aahhs” that fireworks bring?
Dogs can hear sounds over four times more amplified than humans do, so yes, fireworks can terrify them.
Veterans can relate.
The sound and smell can be triggering. I have witnessed this. The loud bursts, those can bring back painful memories.
We did our best to prepare last night. Noise cancelling headphones, aromatherapy, even one of our dogs had some Benadryl to cope.
I understand that fireworks can represent freedom. I know that there are people who love to light them, blow them up, and celebrate, I’m not saying they have to stop. But, if there’s a possibility that one day they could be quieter…well, I’m all for that.
Find the full article here: http://blog.theanimalrescuesite.com