How to Help Keep Your Pets Calm During Fireworks
Make firework season enjoyable for everyone by taking a few minutes to think about this time from your pet’s perspective.
The consistent, loud booms and bright flashes of sparkling lights in the sky are a pastime of the summer season, especially as we celebrate Independence Day. However, the 4th of July is one of the biggest days for pet stress of the year. Read these tips to help make sure your pets are safe and calm as you take your eyes to the sky this holiday weekend!
To dogs who are scared of thunderstorms, fireworks are the meaner, louder and bigger bully of an older brother. Fireworks can cause great stress for your animals, and July 4th is one of the largest celebrations that traditionally require fireworks.
While your pets will never be as big of a fan of fireworks as you are, use these tips to help calm your dog down, reduce anxiety during the display, and help you and your family!
If it’s not too hot out, make sure your pet gets a lot of exercise that day!
During the days leading up to, and even after, July 4th, make sure your pet is getting lots of exercise and water to ensure that your pet is more likely to expend less energy when the fireworks start going off. Nervous energy, especially pent up, can increase and cause a lot more harm than good.
Provide a safe space with other noises.
Establishing a safe space to go when they get scared, whether that’s a crate or a closed room with some of their favorite toys can help create a trusting experience during the big booms and flashes. Experts suggest that if you are heading out to watch the fireworks that you leave a white noise machine on or your television to help block out the sound and reduce the impact of fireworks on your pets.
Another helpful tip would be to close the curtains, too. Animals are very perceptive to light/sudden changes, so closing the curtains can help reduce unwanted stimulation!
Consider having a pet sitter stay with your pet, if you’ll be out.
Making alternate arrangements for your pet can help eliminate the fear and anxiety of fireworks by simply having something there.
Distract with toys or treats.
If you will be home during the fireworks, act as normal as possible around your pets as animals have a keen sense of your energy. During the big booms and bright lights, get out their favorite toys and games! Distraction can be the best trainer for working through turbulence like thunderstorms and fireworks.
Reassuring your pets, speaking to them in a calm soothing voice while petting them will also help ease their anxiety.
Do not yell or tell them to quiet down during the fireworks show or thunderstorm; they need to feel protected and safe. Getting mad at them will only make the experience harder for them.
Use natural calming solutions!
Veterinarians recommend natural calming solutions that help pets feel protected, such as a calming wrap! There are several versions of this product sold at local pet stores or online. Calming wraps, like a ThunderShirt, apply gentle, constant pressure (like a hug) that calms and treats anxiety.
Also on the market are calming chews made of natural ingredients, such as melatonin and chamomile, which can aid in reducing the stresses caused by fireworks and thunderstorms.
Before feeding anything to your pets, talk with your vet! They’ve likely seen extreme cases and can work with you and your pet, especially if the anxiety your pet feels results in destroying your home as a way to cope.
Make firework season enjoyable for everyone by taking a few minutes to think about this time from your pet’s perspective. In the end, your pets will thank you for thinking of them and making sure they are safe and happy during all the summertime festivities!
This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.