Don’t take pets to fireworks, warn Charlottetown police, P.E.I. Humane Society
Last year on Canada Day, Charlottetown police officer Mike Rae witnessed a tragic, but preventable accident.
Danny MacKinnon and his dog, Islay, were at the celebrations in Victoria Park.
When the fireworks started, Islay became so terrified that MacKinnon quickly lost control of the six-month-old Akita-Labrador mix.
MacKinnon chased the pet from the park to Fitzroy Street, but when he finally found her it was too late — Islay had been struck by a car and died. Rae was the first officer on the scene. “It was terrible. Everyone was upset,” he said. “The driver of the car was shaking and crying. I believe Danny was in shock.”
“My biggest regret is that I didn’t leave her at home. It never even occurred to me that she could be in danger. She loves people and we went everywhere together. She was my best friend, constant companion and never left my side. I miss her every day.” Danny MacKinnon
Every year on Canada Day, Charlottetown Police Services and the P.E.I. Humane Society receive calls and requests to help find lost dogs.
Rae and MacKinnon want to help ensure what happened to Islay never happens to another pet.
“My biggest regret is that I didn’t leave her at home. It never even occurred to me that she could be in danger,” said MacKinnon. “She loves people and we went everywhere together. She was my best friend, constant companion and never left my side. I miss her every day.”
The P.E.I Humane Society accepted eight stray animals last Canada Day. Staff encourages anyone who would like to celebrate to keep pets inside their homes, cottages or campers.
“I lost my own dog to a car accident, so I know how Danny felt,” said Rae.
“It’s just not worth the risk taking your dog to the fireworks. It comes down to just one day. They need to be left at home for their own safety.”