Veterinarians and animal experts recommend creating a safe space indoors, staying close and using distractions to reduce firework anxiety.
WASHINGTON — While fireworks events are exhilarating for many people, they can induce stress and fear in pets, potentially putting them in harm’s way. With the Fourth of July nearing, it’s essential to focus on ensuring your pets are as comfortable as possible during the festivities.
How to keep pets safe during fireworks
Prepare in advance
The American Veterinary Medical Association suggests taking proactive measures, such as updating ID tags with current information or ensuring pets are microchipped. Additionally, it’s crucial to secure your yard for instances when neighbors might launch unexpected fireworks.
Create a safe indoor space
The ASPCA and American Kennel Club advise keeping pets indoors, placing them in a calm, enclosed space like a closet or basement, away from windows, where they are shielded from the sights and sounds of fireworks.
“Dogs are den animals — they’re looking for that cave to get away from it all,” Judy Morgan, DVM told the American Kennel Club. Include familiar items like toys or blankets and consider using white noise machines or calming music.
Comfort your pet
Experts say it’s okay to comfort pets if they seem scared, just make sure to do it calmly. Avoid high-pitched or frantic tones. “Petting them can be comforting — long, slow, firm strokes along the length of their body are typically very soothing,” professional dog trainer Jenn Stanley said in the AKC article. If possible, stay home with your pet or have someone trusted with them.
Use distraction tools
Treat-dispensing toys or puzzle feeders can help keep your pet distracted and engaged. Some owners try dog-safe headphones or anxiety vests to muffle sound or reduce physical stress. Stanley also suggests playing recordings of fireworks at a low volume before the holiday to help dogs adjust.
Check for hazards after fireworks
Even if you didn’t use fireworks yourself, the AVMA says to check your yard for debris like sparklers or sticks, which pets may chew or ingest.
Talk to a vet
For pets with severe anxiety, it’s worth consulting a veterinarian about calming supplements, anxiety meds or additional coping strategies.
