Frightened Pets and Fireworks
As most of us get ready for the Fourth of July celebrations, it is a good idea to remember the issues that some pets face from fireworks. The sound of firecracker and rockets bursting can be overwhelming to animals that don’t understand what is going on and many will run from home and hide. Even though every year pet articles come out with useful information to keep pets safe, the fifth of July is still the busiest time for shelters across the country.
The last thing pet parents want is to lose their fur babies during a firework display and risk them getting injured or separated from home. Let’s help keep them comfortable during all of the noise and excitement.
Keep in Mind...
Indoor time is good.
Keep your pets indoors during the display. Loud noises and bright lights can frighten pets and trigger them to run and hide. It may be helpful to distract them by leaving the TV on or by playing music.
Barbeques are fun, but not for pets.
While BBQs are fun for us, there are lots of opportunities for pets to get into products or foods that may cause them harm. Be careful not to leave alcohol and table scraps lying around. These can cause anything from upset tummies to severe obstructions – especially from things such as cooked bones or corn cobs.
Get your pet's microchip scanned.
Make sure the information on your pet’s microchip profile is up to date, as well as with your vet. It may also be a good idea to have your pet’s microchip scanned to make sure it’s still in working order.
A pet tracking chip for their collar could be useful.
If your pet happens to slip out the door, then you will be able to locate them right away. If you have guests over make sure they are aware of your pet so everyone is careful not to let them outside.
Choose calming options.
If you know your pet becomes anxious or stressed easily, there are some options you can try to help keep them calm.
- Calming Chews. There are many calming chews and treats on the market, and particularly those with melatonin, valerian, and L-theanine may help ease anxiety in some cats and dogs. While these may not be a perfect fix for every pet, especially those with extreme phobias, they can be very useful to help take the edge off.
- Pressure Wraps. Some pet owners swear by pressure wraps such as the Thundershirt and Happy Hoodie, and say they work wonders for their pet. However they may not be for everyone, as some animals find the restrictive nature of pressure wraps unpleasant. It can take a fair bit of conditioning to get your pet used to the feeling, but if your pet doesn’t mind it then it can be a great option to help sooth them.
- Calming Pheromones. Feliway for cats and Adaptil for dogs are calming pheromones that send reassuring messages to your pet during stressful situations. Some animals may be more receptive to this than others, so it’s worth it to give it a shot!
- Scent work. Sniffing, licking, and chewing are all self-soothing behaviors for dogs. Things like snuffle mats, lickimats, and stuffed Kongs can help keep your pet busy, provide mental stimulation, and help promote relaxation during stressful events.
Report Pets in Distress.
To report an animal in distress, please call (208) 475-0854. For more information on lost or found pets in Boise, Idaho, visit https://idahohumane society.org/services/lost-and-found/lost-pets or if you live in another state, check your local Human Society webpage for more information.
Do’s & Don’ts
- Do make sure your pet gets both mental and physical exercise the day before and the morning of the fourth.
- Do make sure they are wearing their collar and tags just in case they do run away.
- Do try to keep your pet entertained with toys, TV, or a frozen Kong.
- Do block your outdoor cat doors so that your cat will be safe inside.
- Do keep insect products and repellant away from pets. Oils, candles, and other citronella-based repellants are toxic to pets.
- Do lower the blinds and close the windows. This will help keep the noise down and prevent your anxious pet from seeing the flashing lights.
- Do not put your dog in a crate if they are panicking. They will likely try to escape and could injure themselves.
- Do not force your dog to go with you to experience the fireworks. This will frighten them and cause them stress.
- Do not punish your pet for being afraid. Punishing will only cause more fear.