12/27/2023
When you decide to release “in memory of" balloons, they don’t go where you hope and think they will. They usually end up in a field where livestock are. Often, young calves or goats will chew on/eat the balloons…
Ingesting plastic such as a trash bag or a balloon can cause intestinal blockage in animals. This may cause starvation. Some livestock may even choke on the balloon, causing a very painful death.
For wildlife and even PETS, they can become entangled in the balloon strings, causing them not to be able to move or even strangling them.
I understand the sentiment behind releasing balloons and the grief felt from losing a loved one. BUT there are so many other options!
- Plant a flower garden or make a rock garden in memory of a loved one.
- Plant a tree and watch it grow.
- Host an “In Memory” Celebration WITHOUT releasing balloons.
- Name a star.
Remember: releasing balloons may give you a moment of comfort, but somebody else may be hurt by the consequences.
EDIT TO ADD: This goes for trash bags as well. Please, don't dump out trash on the road side!
