Do you have horses, donkeys, or mules? Are they terrified of fireworks? Are you tired of having to worry about them being injured because of fireworks? Are the fireworks right near your pasture, arena, or barn? 

If this is the case, then I know exactly how you are feeling. My miniature horse, Smokey, is terrified of fireworks too. Each time fireworks are set off near our farm, he becomes full of fear, pacing and running frantically around our pasture. The fireworks make it impossible for him to feel safe, and his distress breaks my heart. All I want is to make him feel safe and comfortable.

This cannot just be my story; there have to be others in this county, whose animals face similar fears due to frequent firework displays.

Georgia House Bill 614 is designed to address these concerns by regulating the closeness of fireworks to equines to protect their welfare in our state. The Bill proposes restrictions on setting off fireworks around barns and pastures housing equine animals. The restriction is 200 yards, 600 feet. It may not sound like enough, but it’s a start. 

By endorsing and adopting this Bill, we can create a community that respects its animal residents, as they should. Dawson County has the opportunity to lead by example, showing that celebrating does not have to mean endangering our animals' livelihoods.

Let's ask our Dawson County representatives to consider the impact on animals and adopt Georgia House Bill 614. Together, we can make our community a safer and more compassionate place for all equine animals. Sign this petition to show your support and make this long-overdue change in our community.