Keeping Your Furry Friends Calm and Safe During Fireworks and Celebrations

As we prepare to celebrate our day of Indepencende here in the USA, the smell of barbecues and the sound of fireworks fill the air. While these loud, explosive celebrations bring joy for many, they can be terrifying for our pets. The loud bangs and bright lights can cause significant anxiety. Fortunately, there are effective ways to keep your furry companions calm and secure during these noisy festivities.

In this blog post, we will explore practical techniques and tips to help your pets handle the chaos of fireworks and other loud celebrations. Let’s dive right in!

Understanding Pet Anxiety During Fireworks

Pets, particularly dogs and cats, have much more sensitive hearing than humans. While we might enjoy the festive sounds, the unexpected noise of fireworks can be alarming to them.

Signs of anxiety in pets can include hiding under furniture, excessive barking, panting, inability to focus, pacing, and trembling. For example, studies show that up to 50% of dogs exhibit signs of fear during fireworks. Knowing how your pet reacts to loud sounds is significant for providing the right support.

Every pet is different. While some dogs may seek comfort by curling up close to you, others might try to escape the noise completely. Identifying your pet's response can help you plan effectively for these events.

Create a Safe Space

One of the best strategies for keeping your pets secure during festivities is to set up a designated “safe space.”

This safe area can be in a quiet part of your home where your pet feels relaxed. Here are some ideas for creating this space:

• Comfort Items: Place their favorite bed, blanket, or even a piece of your clothing to provide extra comfort.

  
  

• Distraction: Include familiar toys to keep them grounded during the noise.

  
  

• Location Matters: Position the safe zone away from windows and doors to reduce outside sounds and distractions. Often, the bathroom is located in the center of the house and even better if you don't have a window in the room you choose. Darken windows if you have them.

Use Calming Aids

In addition to creating a safe space, consider calming aids that can help alleviate your pet’s anxiety during celebrations.

• Music: Soft music or white noise can cover up the noise of fireworks. Some pet-specific playlists even exist to soothe your fur babies! The sound of the dryer running, or the sound of heavy rainfall or moving water can help to dull out the sound of the celebrations going on outside.

  
  

• Calming Treats: Natural treats infused with ingredients like chamomile or valerian root can help calm nervous pets. We've had many requests for calming treats over the years, and we have a couple under development, but nothing finished yet. Of course, if your pup is distracted by food - try giving a meaty beef bone alongside the background noise.

  
  

• Thundershirts: These snug-fitting jackets can provide security for dogs and have been shown to reduce anxiety in up to 80% of the cases. If you don't have a thundershirt, you can try buying a child's bathing suit at a thrift store and cutting the "bottom" off. Look for a size thatwould be snug around your pup's midsection.

  
  

Keep Them Indoors

It is always safer to keep your pets indoors, especially during peak fireworks times.

Ensure that all windows and doors are firmly closed to prevent escapes, as frightened pets may bolt, and avoid leaving them in a room with open windows where sounds and lights can frighten them.

Using black out curtains can help block the bright flashes of light. Keeping your pets indoors not only protects them from the noise but also from potential outdoor dangers such as traffic or other animals.

Use Identification

Despite your best plans, some pets may still become frightened and attempt to escape. To ensure you can find your furry friend if they go missing, proper identification is crucial.

• Collars: Make sure your pet wears a collar with identification tags that include your current phone number. Even better if your pet's collar is embroidered or engraved with your name and contact information.

  
  

• Microchipping: Consider having your pet microchipped for added security. Microchipping increases the chances of reunion after a pet wanders off by over 70%. Check your contact information on the microchip registry to ensure it’s always up-to-date.

Train for Desensitization

Training your pets to be more comfortable with loud sounds can take time and patience, but it is beneficial in the long run.

Start by playing recordings of fireworks at a low volume while rewarding them with treats and affection. Gradually increase the volume while continuing to associate the sounds with positive experiences.

This training process may take a month or more, but being proactive can significantly reduce anxiety in future celebrations.

This training method is best for young animals who haven't yet been exposed to sounds like this. This should not be attempted with pets who are already afraid of loud sounds without the oversight of a pet behaviorist or professional trainer.

During the Celebration

On event day, pay attention to your pet's needs. Here are a few quick recommendations:

• Distractions: Engage in play to draw their focus away from the noise, preferably BEFORE the celebration sounds start. This is the time to get the background noise going!

  
  

• Stay Calm: Your calm demeanor can help soothe your pet. Animals can pick up on your emotions easily.

  
  

• Avoid Loneliness: Try not to leave them alone during fireworks; your presence can provide comfort, unless your pets are actively trying to stay by themselves.

  
  

• Monitor Behavior: If your pet shows signs of stress, gently lead them to their safe space, or if you are experienced with this, lead them to the safe space earlier in the day, play the background noise and offer a long lasting meaty bone to keep them occupied. I t can help to turn the TV onto something mellow, like the golf channel, for the sound of humans nearby if you are going out.

  
  

After the Celebration

Once the fireworks have ended, shower your pet with love and attention.

Celebrate their bravery with cuddles, playtime, or a few special treats as a reward for coping with the noise. It's essential to provide extra care in the days following loud events, as anxiety can linger.

Final Thoughts

Fireworks and loud celebrations can be overwhelming for our pets, but with thoughtful preparations, you can help them feel safe and secure. By setting up a calming space, utilizing calming aids, and showing your love and support, you can make these events more manageable for your furry friends.

As you enjoy the festivities this Fourth of July or any other celebration, remember your pet's unique needs. With a bit of preparation, you can enjoy the holiday while ensuring your fur babies are safe and sound.