As the New Year approaches, we need to add the safety of our pets to the list of things to do.
Fireworks are a thrilling part of many holidays and celebrations, but for our pets, they can be terrifying and even dangerous. Dogs and cats experience the world very differently than humans do, and the loud, unpredictable sounds and bright flashes can cause intense fear, stress, and risky behavior. Taking a few simple precautions can make a huge difference in keeping your furry family members safe and comfortable.
Animals have much more sensitive hearing than people. A sound that seems “loud” to us can feel overwhelming and painful to them. Fireworks also happen without warning, often accompanied by bright flashes and vibrations that animals can’t understand. This can lead to panic, trembling, hiding, destructive behavior, attempts to escape, and even injury.
Cats and dogs may:
- Shake or pace
- Hide under furniture or in closets
- Vocalize excessively (barking, whining, meowing)
- Try to run away or scratch through doors and windows
- Lose their appetite or become withdrawn
Unsure what to do?
I asked our dog trainer, Andrew Greenstein, how we can keep them safe. *
- Set up a safe place, be it a kennel or a favorite room of the house. Place articles of your own clothing (not washed, with scent) on the dog’s bed or in the crate, if possible. (My dog, Poledra, used to dig into my closet and hide in the corner. So, I would prepare the space for her with cushy blankets that smelled like me. )
- Kong type toy stuffed with peanut butter** and frozen treats can help
- Ambient noise such as the TV or Radio.
- Try to give your dog a good amount of exercise as well beforehand so they are not at 100% energy level. This should help them find that quiet safe spot as opposed to pacing.
Some other options if you know your dog has intense fear. Utilizing herbal remedies and CBD products designed for pets can help. However, as with all natural remedies, they require a bit of a set up. Give them several days beforehand to get the remedy working with the body. A full body wrap such as a Zen wrap or Thundershirt can help. You can layer these options together.
DO NOT take your dog to a Firework Display. The loud noise can be painful.
DO keep your pets inside.
KEEP fireworks and sparkers away from your pet. Ingesting these are dangerous.
REMAIN calm with your dog. They won’t understand you’re yelling or raised voice. Keep a calm presence. They absorb our emotions. If we remain calm, this will help the feel safe.
KEEP a collar with identification on your dog and cat in case they get out and run away. Microchips are good, but they do not always get checked and many are not updated!
ONCE the fireworks end, give your pet time to decompress.
- Speak calmly and offer reassurance.
- Resume normal routines to help them feel secure.
- Watch for lingering signs of stress and contact your veterinarian if behavior changes persist.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Fireworks may only last a short time, but the fear they cause in pets can be intense. With thoughtful preparation and a calm, safe environment, you can help your dog or cat get through the celebration with less stress—and keep them safe while everyone enjoys the festivities.
*Thank you to Andrew Greenstein from PracticallyK9 Dog Training. If you would like to reach Andrew, his contact information is 407-924-2126.
**Not all Peanut Butters are safe for your dog. Verify that it is not loaded with sugar NOR the Xylitol sweetener, which can be fatal for dogs. Xylitol can also be found under the name Birch Sugar. STAY AWAY! If you can, purchase your peanut butter from a pet store that carries a brand designed for your pet.