Fireworks are Scary for Pets – Keep them Safe on the 4th of July

Along with fireworks usually comes celebration. But did you know that animals, including your cat(s) and dog(s) are anything but happy about it? Did you know that more pets get lost on the 4th of July than on any other day in the US? This applies to dogs AND cats. Many pets panic around fireworks and will run and can get lost, so this July 4th PLEASE keep your pets in a safe, quiet, secure place AWAY from fireworks.

Lighting off fireworks is a popular hobby in the summer months, but these summertime pyrotechnics can be seriously distressing for pets. Fireworks are a common source of fear, anxiety, and stress for dogs, cats, and equines. 1 in 5 pets go missing after being scared by loud noises, so make sure your furry friends are safe and comfortable.

Create a safe haven for your pets in a sheltered, escape proof part of your home with plenty of water. Also, turn on the TV to help mask the fireworks with familiar sounds. Even turning on an old box fan helps mask the noise. Also pulling blinds or curtains hides the light flashes.

Here are some things to consider:

Never allow your pets near fireworks as they can easily become injured.

Make sure all doors and windows are securely closed.

Make their crate (or other favorite hiding spot) readily available.

Keep an eye on your guests! Visitors may forget and leave a door or window open.

Make sure your property is free of debris before you let your pet back outdoors.

Consider a Thundershirt jacket (or similar) if your pet is prone to fearfulness.

Consult your vet for medication if your pet gets particularly frightened by fireworks and loud noises.

Keep your pets in a separate, quiet, low-activity room when entertaining.

Ensure your pet's microchip information is up-to-date and they have a readable ID tag.

Keep a current photo of your pet handy in case they do get lost.

If you are going out, consider boarding your pet or taking extra steps to keep them secure.

It's fine to comfort your pet if it helps them relax, never punish your pets when they are scared.

Fireworks explode like magnified gunfire in the sensitive ears of all creatures. Humans who have PTSD. Bees become so disoriented they don't go back to their hives. Birds have panic attacks at night causing mass deaths. Wild animals raising babies abandon their dens in fear. Fish and other animals perish after ingesting fireworks debris. Companion Animals have anxiety and panic attacks. Who else wishes we would use silent fireworks instead?