Hey there, pet parents! Fireworks season has been upon us and will come again; and while the colorful lights and booming sounds might be exciting for us humans, they can be downright scary for our furry babies. At Bark, Meow, 'N Beyond, we know how much you love your pets and want to keep them safe, happy, and stress-free. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you protect your precious pups and kitties from the stress fireworks can cause. Let’s get right to it!
Fireworks are loud, unpredictable, and can feel like a threat to animals with their sensitive hearing and heightened instincts, even us humans can feel overwhelmed by them. Many pets experience anxiety because they don’t understand the source of the noise or the flashing lights. It’s like a sensory overload for them! Symptoms of stress might include:
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Panting or drooling (in dogs)
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Hiding or cowering
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Excessive meowing or barking
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Pacing or restlessness
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Destructive behavior
- Even fleeing their homes to the streets
If your furry baby shows any of these signs, don’t worry—there are steps you can take to help them feel safe and secure.
Here's How:
Designate a quiet, cozy space in your home where your pet can retreat when the fireworks start. This could be a room far from windows or doors, or even a comfy spot under the bed. Add their favorite blanket, toys, and maybe a piece of your clothing (so they have your comforting scent).
Pro tip: Use white noise, a fan, or soft music (classical, and even dolphin sounds) to help drown out the fireworks sounds. There are even playlists specifically designed for calming pets!
It might seem obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing: keep your pets inside during fireworks displays. Even the most well-behaved dog or adventurous cat can panic and bolt when they hear loud noises. Double-check that doors, windows, and pet flaps are securely closed.
If you’re planning a backyard BBQ or outdoor celebration, make sure someone is assigned to watch over your furry friend so they don’t accidentally slip out.
There are plenty of products on the market to help soothe your pet’s nerves, including:
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Thundershirts: These snug-fitting wraps can provide a calming effect, like a gentle hug.
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CBD for pets: Many pet owners have found CBD oil or treats helpful for reducing anxiety. Be sure to consult your vet before trying this option.
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Pheromone sprays and diffusers: These mimic natural calming scents and can make your pet feel more relaxed.
Pets thrive on routine, so try to keep their schedule as normal as possible. Feed them at the usual time, take them for walks earlier in the day, and engage in some playtime to tire them out before the evening festivities. A tired pet is a calmer pet!
Your furry baby looks to you for cues on how to react. If you stay calm and collected, they’re more likely to feel safe. Avoid scolding or overreacting to their behavior—this can heighten their anxiety. Instead, offer gentle reassurance and positive reinforcement when they stay calm.
Even with all precautions in place, accidents can happen. Make sure your pet is wearing a secure collar with an up-to-date ID tag, and check that their microchip information is current. If they do manage to escape, these steps will increase the chances of a happy reunion.
If fireworks are a regular occurrence in your area, consider desensitizing your pet gradually. You can find soundtracks of fireworks to play at a low volume, increasing it slowly over time while rewarding calm behavior. This method takes patience but can be incredibly effective in reducing fear.
If your pet’s anxiety is severe, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. They may recommend anti-anxiety medications or other treatments to help your furry baby cope.
We get it—you want to enjoy the fireworks, too! Here’s how you can celebrate without compromising your pet’s comfort:
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Watch fireworks displays on TV or livestream them so you can enjoy the visuals without the noise.
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Plan pet-friendly activities during the day to celebrate together.
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Share the festivities with your pet by treating them to a special snack or toy.
Your furry baby depends on you to keep them safe and happy, especially during potentially stressful events like fireworks. By planning ahead and tuning into their needs, you can turn what could be a scary night into a calm and comforting experience.
At Bark, Meow, 'N Beyond, we’re all about making life better for pets and their humans. We’d love to hear your tips for keeping pets safe during fireworks! Share your ideas in the comments or tag us on social media with your furry baby’s favorite calming tricks.
Let’s make this fireworks season stress-free for everyone—tails will wag, purrs will abound, and everyone will feel the love. 💕