Safe and Sound: Tips for Soothing Anxious Pets During Fireworks
Research indicates that up to 50% of all dogs feel fear during firework displays. Associated behaviors may include pacing, restlessness, shaking, vocalizing, or hiding. What’s worse, with little-to-no supervision or support, stressed pets may try to flee as a way to find peace, comfort, or security. With no frame of reference for what’s happening, pets become triggered by the unpredictable, discordant sounds of the Fourth of July. With our tips, you can protect and soothe the pain of a worried pet.
Basic Differences
Cats and dogs have incredibly sensitive ears. The booming, popping, whistling, and fizzling noises of fireworks have a heightened impact on them, made worse by flashing lights and a funky smell.
Pets have no frame of reference for what fireworks are and why we use them. The result? Pets feel highly threatened and seek out ways to escape perceived danger. Their instincts tell them to hide or run as far away as possible. Without a proactive strategy to keep them safe, calm and supported, pet anxiety can develop into a full-fledged noise phobia.
A Word On IDs
In the off-chance that a pet responds to a flight instinct, it is crucial that they can quickly be identified. In addition to clear ID tags attached to their collar, their microchip adds a layer of defense against temporary or permanent separation. As collars can fall off accidentally or be removed by others, pet microchips offer a sense of security if a pet runs off.
The days after the Fourth of July are among the busiest at animal shelters. Pets either bolt out the front door, through an open gate, or out of a car window, and may never be seen again by their family members. Fatal vehicular injuries and fights with other animals are very real consequences of pet anxiety.
A Room With No View
In addition to pet-proofing your house and yard (checking that everything is safe and secure), we recommend setting up a quiet space for your pet as far away from the noise/action as possible that includes:
- Their favorite bed, blanket, or crate
- All of their preferred toys
- Highly desirable treats
- Lost of fresh water
- White noise
- Dim lighting
Play with them to distract them from the festivities, but take cues from them. If they appear sleepy, allow them to rest or snuggle with you. You could also further the positive association by giving them a very special treat that they don’t usually have.
Desensitization can help reduce the intensity of a pet’s triggers, but the process can take time. Play sound recordings or videos of fireworks shows while they are doing something they enjoy, like playing tug, fetch, or enjoying a high-value snack.
Here For Your Pet
Please call us at (916) 737-5670 with any questions about pet safety or behavior. Our team is always here for your pet at East Sacramento Veterinary Center.