With July Fourth and other summer events approaching, you may face a common dilemma: how to keep your pet calm and safe during the fireworks season. Whether the celebration is Independence Day, a graduation, or a sports event, if fireworks are part of the festivity, the startling sounds and bright lights often distress many pets. Our Veterinary Behavior Solutions team provides effective tips you can follow to help prepare your furry friend and minimize their anxiety when the big bangs begin.

#1: Create a safe space for your pet

Designate a cozy, secure area in your home, preferably with few windows or none, to which your pet can retreat during fireworks displays. Inside the room, place necessities such as food, water, and a litter box. In addition, ensure you include your pet’s bed, toys, and favorite items. Close all windows and draw the curtains to minimize the noise and visual stimulation taking place outside. Ensure the space is escape-proof. Window screens are ineffective at keeping pets inside as they can become loose and pop out, or your pet can push through them in an attempt to escape the noise. Remember to lock windows to prevent your pet from escaping in a panic. 

#2: Provide enjoyable distractions to occupy your pet

Keep your pet focused on something they enjoy, such as toys, puzzles, or treats, to help divert their attention away from the booms and pops. Interactive toys that dispense food or treats can be especially effective because they hold your furry pal’s attention, encouraging them to focus on something positive.

#3: Use calming aids to soothe your pet

Consider using calming aids such as pheromone diffusers, calming collars, or anxiety vests designed for pets. Anxiety vests apply gentle pressure against your pet’s torso, which relaxes them. Calming products can help reduce stress and promote relaxation in anxious cats and dogs. Natural remedies, such as lavender or chamomile, can also soothe your pet. However, before giving your furry friend an herbal remedy, consult our Veterinary Behavior Solutions team or your primary veterinarian to ensure the supplement is safe for pets.

#4: Desensitize your pet to loud or sudden noises

In advance of fireworks events, expose your pet to recorded fireworks sounds at a low volume, gradually increasing the level over time. This method is most effective when you start playing these sounds a few months before noisy events. Pairing recorded fireworks sounds with positive rewards, such as treats or playtime, can help desensitize your pet to loud noises and reduce their fear response when fireworks displays occur.

#5: Consider white noise to minimize your pet’s stress

Background noise can help muffle outdoor noises. By counteracting festivities’ sounds through these methods, you can help relieve your furry friend’s noise aversion. Some white noise options include:

  • Radio played a a low volume
  • Playlists designed to reduce pet anxiety
  • TV at a low volume
  • White noise machine
  • Fans on medium to high settings

#6: Lock gates and doors to prevent pet escape

If you are hosting a gathering, remind all guests to close doors and gates behind them. Many pets escape parties because pet owners are distracted while entertaining their guests. An open gate, window, or door is the perfect opportunity for a fearful pet to escape. 

#7: Check your pet’s identification tag and microchip 

Ensure your pet wears a collar with an up-to-date identification (ID) tag that includes your current contact information. If your pet escapes during a fireworks display, the ID collar increases their chances of being returned safely to you. Additionally, check that your pet’s microchip has your current contact information. If your furry pal isn’t microchipped, schedule this quick, easy procedure with your primary veterinarian before the summer gets into full swing. A microchip provides your pet with the best chance for reuniting with you should they go missing. GPS collars are also a great way to keep track of your pet wherever they go.

#8: Stay calm and reassure your pet

Your pet intuitively knows when you are stressed or anxious, so remain calm and reassuring during fireworks displays. Speak to your pet using kind words and soothing tones, and give them gentle pats and cuddles. Your comforting presence can give your furry pal a sense of security during these stressful situations.

When you proactively prepare your pet for fireworks, you can help alleviate their anxiety and ensure their safety during noisy celebrations. If your pet needs a little help navigating fireworks season, call our Veterinary Behavior Solutions team for a consultation.