July Fourth is a time to celebrate, but the fireworks, barbecues, and community events that people enjoy can be stressful and sometimes dangerous for pets. Fireworks are notorious for causing anxiety in many pets, and some will run away or be injured trying to escape, because their panic is so extreme. The Alisos Animal Hospital team believes your pet’s safety and security during this festive holiday is paramount. Here are eight tips to keep your furry pal calm, collected, and protected. 

1. Learn how fireworks and noise aversion affect pets

Many pets—around two-thirds of dogs—suffer from noise aversion, which causes extreme anxiety in response to loud or unexpected noises. Fireworks commonly trigger signs that include trembling, panting, vocalizing, hiding, or attempting to escape. Many pet owners believe these are normal behaviors that will resolve once the noise stops. However, most affected pets get worse with each subsequent noise exposure. Recognizing your pet’s anxiety is the first step.

2. Try a sedative medication for your pet

Sedatives are the primary treatment used to control noise-related anxiety in pets. Medications given in advance can prevent your pet’s anxiety or reduce its impact on their well-being. Medications may also help you teach your pet other coping strategies when used consistently. Consult with our team to discuss appropriate anti-anxiety medications, sedatives, or drug combinations based on your pet’s history and condition severity. We may also recommend various calming supplements or products in addition to prescription medication or to use alone in mildly affected pets.

3. Create a safe, quiet space for your pet

Another effective way to keep your pet calm during July Fourth celebrations is to create a safe, quiet space indoors where they are insulated from loud noise. Choose a room or other space—such as a closet or bathtub—where your pet feels secure and stock it with their favorite bed, toys, and food puzzles. For cats, include a litter box and food and water station. You can also use calming pheromone diffusers and play soothing music in your pet’s safe room.

4. Model calm behavior for your pet

Your pet is highly attuned to your emotions and will become anxious if they detect that you feel uneasy, so remain calm, treat July Fourth the same as any other day, and your pet will likely be less anxious about the noise or chaos. Pet owners naturally want to soothe their fearful pet but this works only if your voice and actions reflect that you are calm.

5. Ensure your pet is microchipped and wearing an ID tag

More pets get lost in July than any other time, because pets frightened by fireworks often run away. Well before the holiday, ensure your pet has a collar with an up-to-date ID tag, and consider microchipping. A tiny microchip implanted under their skin provides permanent identification, and can help ensure you are reunited with your pet should they become lost. If your pet is already microchipped, before July Fourth is a good time to ensure your registration is current.

6. Don’t light fireworks when pets are nearby

Never light fireworks or sparklers when pets are nearby. Noise is only one aspect of fireworks safety—they also pose a physical danger of burns and other injuries. We recommend moving fireworks displays away from your home or avoiding them altogether if your pet suffers from noise phobias. Keep pets indoors when you expect a neighborhood fireworks display or ensure they are securely leashed when outside.

7. Keep pets away from the BBQ

Some July Fourth safety hazards are unrelated to fireworks. If you’re having a get-together, keep pets away from the grill to prevent burns, and be cautious with food and drinks. Many common barbecue foods, such as onions, alcohol, corn cobs, and animal bones, can be toxic or harmful to pets. Ensure guests do not feed your pets and dispose of all trash in a secure receptacle.

8. Protect pets from summertime heat

July Fourth also coincides with one of the hottest months of the year in California. Don’t let your holiday to-do list distract you from ensuring your pet always has access to fresh water and shade when outdoors to avoid dehydration or heatstroke.

July Fourth fireworks and festivities may cause your pet undue anxiety or panic, so help them feel more comfortable and keep them safe by following our tips. Schedule a consultation with our Alisos Animal Hospital team well before the noisy holiday—we will help you develop a treatment plan for your noise-averse pet and recommend more strategies for keeping them calm and safe.