Fireworks can be fun for us, but not for our furry friends. Here are some tips to keep your pets safe this 4th of July!
Imagine hearing loud booms and seeing bright lights without knowing why. That’s how your pet feels during fireworks. This can turn their sweet nature into terror or aggression, endangering your family or those around you.
Remember these safety tips as you head out for an exciting evening this Fourth of July to ensure the safety of your family and pets.
Fireworks Shows are Best Suited for your Kiddos
Do not take your pet to a show unless you are absolutely sure he or she is not afraid of fireworks.
Don’t Leave Your Pet Outside
If you are setting off fireworks in your yard (which is illegal) or live in earshot of a fireworks show, do not leave your pet outside—even in a secured and fenced yard. Ensure fences and screens are in good repair to prevent your pet from escaping from your home during the fireworks.
Create a Safe Space in Your Home
Find the quietest room in your house, and put your pet’s food, water, bed, or crate in that room, along with a few toys. Turn on the TV or play music to help mute the sounds of the fireworks.
Update Your Pet Collars or Tags
Put a collar and tags on your dog or cat. The tags will help ensure that your pet returns home if it escapes. Make sure that the information on the tags is current. Ask your vet about microchipping!
Take a Road Trip
Take a road trip. If your pet is terrified of fireworks and nothing you do makes the situation more tolerable, consider leaving your pet with a friend outside the fireworks zone or checking into a pet-friendly hotel. Check out these four recommended road trips from one of our writers!
If you can’t hit the road, leave them with a friend or stay at a pet-friendly hotel. We love Paw Commons, which has three locations in Kearny Mesa, Bay Park, Hillcrest, and Encinitas.
Try an Anxiety Jacket (or similar product) on your Pet
ThunderShirt is a vet-recommended option, but there are a ton on the market that may help calm your dog in stressful situations like hearing the 4th of July fireworks. ThunderShirt applies gentle, constant pressure to your dog’s torso, like swaddling an infant or a comforting hug, to help them feel calmer. ThunderShirt is safe, easy to use, and drug-free.
Calming Medications
Consult your vet about medications that will help calm your pet. I personally like these two options: Zesty Paws Calming Chews or ThunderWunders Hemp Dog Calming Chews. If your little furry friend is afraid of fireworks or suffers from any other type of anxiety, call your local vet!
