20 Jun How to Keep Your Pets Safe During Fireworks

While a celebration featuring fireworks is exciting for most people, your pets often don’t feel the same. The sound of fireworks can scare both cats and dogs, and send them running off in fear. More pets go missing on July 4th and 5th than any other day of the year. In fact, there is a 30 percent increase in lost pets during that time!

Families often know how to keep their kids safe during a fireworks display, but what about our pets? Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep them safe, calm, and happy and prevent them from running off. 

Microchip Your Pet

Microchipping your pet is something that all veterinarians recommend. A microchip is a small chip that is usually placed by a vet between the shoulder blades using a needle. It’s quick and easy, and relatively painless for your pet. (Note: contrary to popular belief, a microchip isn’t a tracking device. It does, however, identify your pet once he or she is found.) 

Each chip stores your contact information, which allows you to be reunited with your pet as quickly as possible. If your pet does run off during a holiday because of fireworks, having them microchipped increases the odds that they will be safely returned to you. 

Keep Your Pet Home and Indoors

Avoid leaving your pet outdoors when you know that there is a chance fireworks will be set off, such as July 4th or New Years Eve. If they’re out in your yard, even if it’s fenced, the sudden and loud sounds could scare them and cause unnecessary stress. 

If you can stay home with your pet to help keep them calm, that’s even better. If you’re traveling, on the other hand, leave them at home and indoors with somebody that you trust. There’s a higher risk of your pet running off if they’re in an unfamiliar environment. 

If all that wasn’t enough, there’s one more reason to keep Fido inside during big days like July 4. If you’re grilling, shooting off bottle rockets or even waving around sparklers, you want to be sure your pet is far from the chaos. Pets can be easily injured in a setting like that. Charcoal, grill skewers, and small firecrackers can all be tempting for a curious pet, so keep them safe and secure inside. 

Even if you think that your pet won’t be afraid of fireworks or the other commotion that comes with the holiday, we still recommend keeping them indoors in a dark, safe area where they have a better chance to remain calm and can’t escape.

Pets are sneaky and curious! Be sure to pay extra attention when opening doors, and make sure to alert your guests to do the same. Especially if you are hosting a holiday party or BBQ since people constantly flow in and out of the house.. 

Alleviate Anxiety For Your Pet

Some pets are more sensitive to noise than others. If your dog or cat cowers during thunderstorms, they will most likely be sensitive to the sound of fireworks as well. One thing you can do is take them for a long walk prior to the activities. Some good exercise will help wear them out and make them more likely to sleep through the fireworks. 

You can also try natural anxiety relieving products, like anxiety wraps, calming supplements, or bedding that keeps them snug. We suggest trying these products ahead of time to see what works best for your pet. Ask your PetWellClinic veterinarian for more recommendations for naturally relieving anxiety in your pet. 

If your pet still experiences anxiety and you’re concerned about upcoming holidays, talk to your vet about recommended prescription medications. 

Definitely keep all of your windows closed, and consider turning on the TV or playing white noise during the festivities. For some pets, it’s the random bursts of noise that scare them the most. Distracting them with calm or familiar noises can lessen the chances of being scared by the celebrations going on around them.

Prepare Ahead of Time, and Stop by PetWellClinic for Help

PetWellClinic is dedicated to being here for pet owners at a moment’s notice. Our hours of operation extend into the evenings and weekends, and our clinic environment is built with your pet’s comfort in mind. No appointment necessary. 

If you aren’t sure if your pet is microchipped, bring them by PetWellClinic and we can scan for one! Or if you have just adopted a new furry friend, we can implant a chip quickly and at an affordable price. We can also recommend any medication your pet may benefit from if you’re concerned about how they’ll handle celebrations that involve fireworks. 

PetWellClinic provides convenient, affordable veterinary care for cat owners. PetWellClinic has locations and services built with convenience in mind. Stop by with your pet any time! No appointment necessary.