Dear Reverend,
My husband and I host a barbecue party every Fourth of July. Not a big blowout, but usually a dozen or so people attend. My brother-in-law always brings fireworks to set off in the backyard. Everybody loves it, except for our dog. She gets really scared, and it takes at least a day for her to recover. How do I nix the fireworks without coming off like a big party pooper?
Roman Kandell (man, 47)
Dear Roman Kandell,
I used to be a pyrotechnical maniac. After the sale of fireworks became legal in Vermont, I kept a well-stocked arsenal and used any excuse to light things up — until one New Year’s Eve, when my antics caused a friend’s dog to take off. Granted, she got out when nobody was looking and was returned safe and sound fairly quickly, but I still felt responsible. I also learned about how the noise and lights can negatively impact wildlife (and some humans), so my dynamite days are over.
But I digress.
You could talk to your vet, or find information online, about how to keep a dog calm during a fireworks display. But it’s her house, too, so I think it would be most appropriate to prevent the problem.
Your brother-in-law needs to be made aware of how much distress his displays cause your dog. You should have a serious talk with him about it. Enlist your husband’s help.
During the conversation, you should not-so-casually mention that while fireworks are legal to purchase in Vermont, you are supposed to have a permit to set them off. Doing so without proper permission can result in fines or worse. Check with your town about specific requirements and ordinances before you have the chat.
I usually believe that honesty is the best policy, but if you feel a fib might help your case, simply say a neighbor complained about the noise last year. I won’t hold it against you.
If he still insists on bringing fireworks after all that, suggest that they not happen so close to your house. Perhaps there’s a nearby park or field where the show could take place? Of course, that might cause commotion for someone else’s canine.
However you address the situation, you certainly aren’t being a party pooper. You’re just protecting your pooch. Hopefully you’ll be able to come to an arrangement that keeps everyone happy — and safe — during your celebration.
Good luck and God bless,
The Reverend
This article appears in July 1 • 2026.
