While Independence Day fireworks may seem fun to humans, they have the potential to scare or harm a pet.
Lindsey Dyches, marketing specialist for the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia, offered some tips for preventing pet anxiety this Fourth of July.
“The best thing you can do is plan ahead, because animals are such sensitive creatures, especially dogs and cats…they have high [levels of] hearing and fireworks can make them nervous,” said Dyches.
Dyches said doing the following ahead of the holiday can help pets remain calm:
- Make sure the pet is microchipped and information is correct. Microchips are an excellent way to help locate a pet if they get lost during the festivities
- Secure the pet’s collar with correct identification attached
- Take walks in the afternoon before fireworks begin. This exercise will help a pet feel more tired and relaxed that evening
- Set up a safe space, like a crate or quiet room, for a pet to stay in throughout the night. Dyches also recommends playing calm music to offset the firework booms
- Place sheets or curtains over the windows of the room the pet is staying in to block out bright flashes of light
- Talk to a veterinarian about anxiety medication if the pet is known to suffer panic attacks
- Purchase a ThunderShirt or similar brand for a pet to wear throughout the night. Dyches said these vests help a pet feel secure and safe
Dyches said many pets panic during firework shows because their familiar environment is suddenly interrupted by loud noises and bright lights.
“So you always want to think ahead and try to be careful, because the last thing you want is your animal getting out,” said Dyches.
