Tips and Tricks to Keep your Pet Calm this 4th of July

The 4th of July is just around the corner and I'm sure you already know how pets feel about fireworks. While they may be exciting for us, fireworks can be a source of anxiety and stress for our furry friends. Pets such as dogs and cats have unique ear anatomies allowing them to hear louder and further sounds than a human can. So, if we think fireworks are LOUD, just imagine what our pets hear!

• Walk your dog earlier — Take your dog for a walk earlier in the day, well before the fireworks begin. A good walk helps burn off energy and reduces restlessness later in the evening.
  
• Create a comfy space-Set up a safe and comfortable indoor space where your pal can retreat during firework shows. Choose a quiet room away from windows and doors, such as a bedroom or a basement. Provide familiar bedding, toys, and comforting items to keep your pet feeling safe.
• Close the windows- Close all windows and draw the curtains to help block out noise and reduce visual stimuli from fireworks displays.
• Don't leave your pet alone- If possible, avoid leaving your pet alone during fireworks. Stay with them to provide comfort and reassurance or enlist the help of a trusted friend or family member if you need to leave the house.
• Distract and entertain - Provide your pet with distracting and fun activities to help keep their mind off the fireworks. Offer interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or engaging games to help redirect their focus and mental drive.
• Try an anxiety wrap — Anxiety medications, Thundershirts and other anxiety wraps apply gentle, constant pressure to your pet's body, similar to swaddling a baby. Many pet owners find them effective for reducing stress during loud events like fireworks. They are available for both dogs and cats.
• Watch what they eat — 4th of July gatherings often mean BBQ food, alcohol, and sweet treats within easy reach. Many of these are toxic to pets. Keep food and drinks secured and out of reach to avoid an emergency vet visit on top of an already stressful night.
• Make sure they're identified — Frightened pets are one of the leading causes of lost animals around the 4th of July. Make sure your pet has a collar with an up-to-date ID tag and is microchipped before the holiday weekend. If they do slip out, this dramatically improves the chances of getting them home safely.
• Talk to your vet- Ask your vet about Sileo which is prescribed to calm dogs down when they're frightened by loud noises such as fireworks. Sileo works by blocking norepinephrine which is a neurotransmitter and hormone that transmits nerve signals during moments of stress.

If you don't want to go the prescription way, check out our calming and anxiety supplements!

Read more, Pet Travel Safety Tips for a Calm 4th of July

Dog Calming & Anxiety Supplements (hardypaw.com)

Cat Calming & Anxiety Supplements (hardypaw.com)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why are pets so scared of fireworks?

Ans: Pets such as dogs and cats have a much more sensitive hearing range than humans, allowing them to hear sounds that are louder and from further away. Fireworks produce sudden, unpredictable loud noises and bright flashes that can trigger a fear response, causing anxiety and stress in pets.

Q2: How do I know if my pet is anxious during fireworks?

Ans: Common signs of anxiety in pets during fireworks include trembling or shaking, excessive barking or meowing, panting, pacing, hiding, attempting to escape, or refusing to eat. If your pet shows any of these signs, try some of the calming tips mentioned above.

Q3: Is Sileo safe for my dog?

Ans: Sileo is an FDA-approved prescription medication specifically designed to calm dogs during noise-related anxiety events such as fireworks. It is considered safe when prescribed and administered correctly under veterinary guidance. Always consult your vet before giving your dog any prescription medication.

Q4: Are there non-prescription options to calm my pet during fireworks?

Ans: Yes! There are several non-prescription options available, including calming supplements, anxiety wraps such as Thundershirts, interactive toys, and puzzle feeders to keep your pet distracted. Check out our Dog Calming & Anxiety Supplements and Cat Calming & Anxiety Supplements for more options.

Q5: Should I leave my pet alone during fireworks?

Ans: It is best to avoid leaving your pet alone during fireworks if at all possible. Your presence provides comfort and reassurance. If you must leave, ask a trusted friend or family member to stay with your pet, or ensure they have a safe, quiet space with familiar bedding and toys to retreat to.