Fireworks stands will soon be lining the streets and the familiar booms will be echoing in the night sky. Whether you love lighting firecrackers or wish we could fast forward to August, fireworks are a common fixture during the summer months, and noisy celebrations aren’t likely to disappear any time soon. While people associate fireworks with patriotism, barbecues, and celebrations, for pets they symbolize something quite different—loud, scary noise. Many pets feel a tremendous amount of fear, confusion, and anxiety at the sights and sounds of fireworks. Fortunately, you can alleviate these fears while keeping your pet safe and secure with these five tips from our Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital team. 

#1: Learn about noise aversion in pets

Many pet owners are unaware that noise aversion is a medical condition, similar to a human panic attack, and often consider the condition a behavioral issue. Thus, noise aversion in pets, who will show signs of stress, fear, and anxiety when they hear loud sounds such as fireworks or construction machines, often goes undiagnosed. A noise-averse pet may not only be extremely fearful, but also may be destructive, to themselves or your home. Noise-averse pets may show the following signs:

  • Pacing or restlessness
  • Excessive panting
  • Trembling or shaking
  • Hiding or cowering
  • Lip licking
  • Loss of appetite
  • Hyper alertness
  • Whining or barking
  • Yawning
  • Abnormal clinginess
  • Freezing or immobility

If you suspect your pet is extremely noise-averse, ensure you share this information with your veterinarian. Once they confirm the diagnosis, they can formulate a multimodal treatment plan, including environmental management, behavioral modification, and medication. 

#2: Keep your pet away from fireworks

Your pet may not seem overly fearful of loud noises, but they are still best kept safe at home during a fireworks celebration. Before the big event, make a safe haven for your pet in an interior room, provide plenty of treats and toys to keep them busy and distracted, and provide background noise with calm music or the television. If your pet’s problem is severe, also consider the following calming tools:

  • ThunderShirt — This adjustable pet shirt applies constant, gentle pressure to your pet’s body and helps manage their fear and anxiety.
  • Pheromone diffuser — Certain calming or appeasing pheromones can relieve your pet’s stress. 
  • Interactive toys — Toys that mentally engage your pet, such as Kongs or Snuffle Mats, can distract them from the noises outside.

#3: Exercise your pet before the fireworks

Plan ahead, when possible, and take your pet for a long walk before the fireworks start. Exercise will help tire them out, which will help them feel more calm. They can also relieve themselves during the walk, because many fearful pets are too afraid to go outside during fireworks, and this will avoid an accident. 

#4: Talk to your veterinarian about possible medications

If your pet’s noise aversion is concerning, and you want to start now preparing for the fireworks displays, consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. They can recommend behavioral modification resources or prescribe a short-term sedative for your pet before the fireworks start.

#5: Prepare your pet with identification

A fearful pet can behave erratically and, unfortunately, many pets get loose during the commotion. Again, your pet will be safest at home during the fireworks show, but be prepared in case your pet gets loose by ensuring they can be identified with the following: 

  • Collar and tag — Ensure your pet’s collar fits securely and holds your current contact information. 
  • Microchip — Microchipping is a safe technology and a simple, quick process where your veterinarian injects a tiny chip under your pet’s skin near their neck. The microchip contains a number that refers to your contact information kept in a database. Should your pet be lost, the chip can be scanned to find your information. Microchipping  gives you added peace of mind, especially since collars can come off, and greatly increases the likelihood that you and your pet will be reunited. 

Most people love a good celebration with fireworks, but your pet’s safety and comfort should also be a priority. With these tips and some planning, you and your pet will be ready for a fear-free firework season. Schedule an appointment with our Narcoossee Oaks Animal Hospital to have your pet microchipped, or if you have concerns about your pet’s noise aversion.