To the Editor,
Re: Beefs and Bouquets, Nov. 12.
In response to the person who beefed about teenagers letting off firecrackers, let me explain a few things to you.
In the first place, letting off fireworks without a permit is illegal. Lighting firecrackers and throwing them randomly is extremely dangerous both to the thrower and wherever they land. Not only animals, but elderly people with heart problems, people on bicycles and pedestrians could be seriously affected.
Secondly, as far as frightening dogs in particular is concerned, I foster two rescue dogs, one of which was very nervous right from the start; however, because of the firecrackers, she is now suffering post-traumatic stress disorder and is on medication prescribed by the vet. She is not eating, shakes, pants and drools at the slightest loud noise, and is afraid to go outside after dark.
On future occasions when firecrackers are likely to be set off, my friends and I will be patrolling the streets in our area to see exactly who is doing this, and their illegal activities will be reported to the police.
Diana WalkerNanaimo