06/15/2024
Milton's regular "Ask the Equestrian" returns with more pertinent insights to educate our community about all things horses. If you have a horse-related question, email it to [email protected] and we'll do our best to answer it online.
QUESTION: Why are fireworks and other loud, sudden noises particularly dangerous to horses?
ANSWER: Horses generally are “flight” (rather than “fight”) animals. So when they perceive danger such as from an unexpected boom like a firework, a horse’s natural tendency is to bolt or generally react more wildly. And because of their herd instincts (in which they tend to gather together with safety in numbers), if one horse gets upset it can set off a chain reaction with other horses in the vicinity having a similar reaction. When they do, horses could seriously harm themselves (such as by running into things), nearby property, as well as any people or other animals near what can quickly escalate to become a scary situation. They might also escape into surrounding areas beyond their home, which poses a whole new set of issues and potential hazards.
This is something to keep in mind over the summer, when people generally are more likely to use fireworks. A reminder that the loud noises caused by fireworks are prohibited within Milton except for a handful of days. The next allowed times are between 10 a.m. and midnight on July 3 and July 4. Having set allowed times helps people prepare themselves and their animals, as some people (like veterans with PTSD) and household pets like dogs are extremely sensitive to blasting fireworks. Horses are important to our city’s rural heritage, so we appreciate people’s consideration of them this season and, really, all seasons.
For more on fireworks in Milton – including regulations and impacts – go to www.miltonga.gov/Fireworks.