The Fourth of July is tomorrow and the thoughts of many in Texarkana and the surrounding area are turning to one thing: Fireworks.
Young and old alike get bitten by the fireworks bug this time of year. It's easy to see why. The loud noise and bright lights that go with any fireworks display just make any holiday more festive.
And it's a lot more fun when you set them off for yourself.
There are a lot of fireworks to choose from. From firecrackers to bottle rockets, sparklers to Roman candles, whistlers and chasers, up to large pyrotechnic rockets capable of lighting up the sky.
We've written about this before in this space. Fireworks come with dangers. We imagine you already know all about that.
And the risks aren't just physical. Setting off fireworks is illegal inside the city limits in Texarkana-on both sides of the state line. You can pay a lot more for your fun than you thought.
Yes, the arguments against fireworks are many and most have heard them. But this year we would like to focus on one you may not have ever thought about.
And that's the effect fireworks can have on our furry family members.
Some dogs can handle the noise. But many cannot. The loud bursts frighten them, make them cower and whimper. It can be traumatizing.
Most neighborhoods are home to dogs and there is no way of knowing how they will react to fireworks. You might be having fun, but somewhere nearby an animal might be suffering for your pleasure.
Think about that. Is it worth it?
If you must shoot off fireworks, do so where it's legal and that means outside the city limits. Yes, there are dogs out in the country, but they are not as concentrated and confined as in the city. It's just a matter of courtesy-and kindness.