The July Fourth holiday is a time for celebration, filled with fireworks, barbecues, and festive gatherings. However, these rowdy activities can be stressful and even dangerous for pets. Loud fireworks noises and bright lights can induce fear, and the increased activity and unfamiliar guests can create opportunities for accidents or escape. Our State Ave Veterinary Clinic team offers tips to keep your four-legged friend safe and calm during Independence Day. 

Create a pet-friendly zone

Designate a quiet, secure area where your pet can retreat if they become anxious. This space should be comfortable, quiet, and away from windows where fireworks noises and flashes are intense. Ensure you close and latch windows and doors, and let others know not to let your furry friend out. Provide your pet with challenging toys and games, their favorite treats, and a comfy pet bed. 

Bring pets indoors before the fireworks begin

To prevent your pet from running away during a fireworks display, they should stay indoors, no matter if they normally spend time outdoors. Even calm pets can become frightened and disoriented by the loud noises and bright lights. Also, never take your pet to fireworks gatherings or events, because their chances of becoming lost significantly increase.

Provide your pet with fun activities as positive distractions

Keep your pet occupied with their favorite toys, treats, or interactive games during fireworks displays. Consider giving your dog or cat:

  • Treat-dispensing puzzles
  • Hide-and-seek games
  • Long-lasting dental chews  
  • Stuffed toys
  • Interactive toys, including a laser pointer
  • Automated or battery-operated toys

These toys and games can engage your pet for an extended period. Playing soft music or turning on the TV can also help drown out fireworks sounds and create a calming environment. However, despite these distractions, you or another family member should remain with your furry pal during the fireworks.

Use calming sprays to reduce your pet’s anxiety

Various calming products, available at most pet supply stores, can help soothe a fearful or anxious pet. Calming collars, which release pheromones, can provide comfort, as can pheromone sprays such as Feliway. In addition, consider outfitting your pet in a Thundershirt or other anxiety wrap, which applies gentle, constant pressure on your pet’s body to help reduce their anxiety. For some pets, natural supplements or prescription medications prescribed by our State Ave Veterinary Clinic veterinarian may be appropriate.

Ensure your pet has identification tags and a microchip

If your pet does escape during the July Fourth hoopla, they have a better chance of being reunited with you if they have proper identification (ID). Ensure that your pet’s ID tags and microchip have your current contact information. If you don’t have your pet microchipped, our team strongly recommends you do so. Microchipping is a simple procedure that our team can easily perform during your pet’s wellness exam.

Keep your pet away from hot grills and toxic foods

During gatherings, be vigilant about keeping your curious furry friend away from food and beverages intended for people. Never give your pet the following toxic foods:

  • Chocolate
  • Onions and garlic
  • Grapes and raisins
  • Alcohol
  • Raw yeast dough
  • Moldy foods
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Avocados
  • Fruit pits or seeds

Make the barbecue area a pet-free zone to prevent your dog or cat from being burned by hot grease and grill surfaces. Additionally, cover trash bins with tight-fitting lids, as the containers may include sharp objects, plastic and tin foil, meat skewers, and table scraps, which can be dangerous to your pet.

Consider making other arrangements for your pet

If you know your pet is particularly fearful of fireworks, consult with our veterinarian well ahead of the holiday. We can make recommendations and prescribe anti-anxiety medication to help manage your pet’s stress. Before a fireworks display or a gathering, take your dog for a long walk to tire them out. If you are hosting a large gathering, your best option may be to board your furry pal or ask a family member or friend to care for them overnight.

July Fourth can be stressful for your pet, but by properly preparing, you can help maintain their safety and comfort. Remember to make a plan and contact our State Ave Veterinary Clinic team if your four-legged friend needs additional support to calm their fears. We wish you and your pet a happy and safe Independence Day!