Pets and Fireworks
Fireworks Safety and Loud Noise Phobias

Updated 07/01/04
As many pet owners know, fireworks and thunder storms can cause a great deal of stress for some animals. Commonly seen signs include:

• Shaking, trembling
• Excessive drooling
• Barking, howling
• Trying to hide or get into / out of the house, fence, or other enclosure
• Refusing to eat food
• Some animals may loose bladder or bowel control or experience temporary diarrhea from prolonged stress

Please note: The signs mentioned above are general signs, and could be indicative of many different diseases or conditions. Please consult with your veterinarian if these signs persist after fireworks or thunder has subsided, or if you suspect that your pet may have been poisoned or is otherwise ill.

Practice Safety

• Keep pets indoors. It is advisable to close the curtains and turn on the TV or radio to provide some distraction. A quiet place, such as a carrier, may provide your pet with a sense of security and comfort.
• Use a leash or carrier. If you must be outside with your pet, keep the pet on a leash or in carrier at all times.
• Practice fire safety. Keep pet away from matches, open fires, and fireworks - especially ones that are lighted on the ground. Pets may try to sniff (or eat) fireworks, and pet hair can easily catch fire if too close to the fireworks.
• Take pet for a walk first. If possible, make sure that you pet has time to "use the restroom" before the fireworks start. Some pets are too frightened to void once the fireworks begin, and this may lead to an "accident" later on.
• Make sure pet ID is current. Make sure that your pet has proper identification tags, with current information, in case s/he gets away. This will help the local authorities (who are quite busy this time of year handling frightened runaways).

What can I do if my pet is frightened of fireworks and thunder?
Some animals do fine and don't seem to notice the fireworks. Some do well with just having their owner near, talking in a soothing voice and petting or holding the pet. And then there are some pets that cannot be calmed by petting or talking to them - they are simply too upset. Animals that are frightened/stressed can hurt themselves and possibly escape if left alone, and the results can be fatal. Frightened animals running loose are in great danger of being hit by a car.

For these animals, it is best to provide a safe place, such as a carrier, to be in while the fireworks last. This alone may be enough of a comfort to soothe some pets. If the carrier is not enough to calm the animal, medication (in the form of a tranquilizer) may be warranted. Tranquilizers are not for every pet! Talk to your vet about medical options that are suitable for your dog or cat. A patient-doctor relationship is needed before dispensing medications, so if your pet hasn't seen the vet yet, an appointment will need to be made to examine the animal to ensure that there aren't any underlying heart or other problems, and base any medications on current weight.

To help your pet become accustomed to thunder and other loud noises, you can try some behavior modification. This technique involves playing a recording of thunder at very low levels. Use the time to reassure your pet that everything is fine. Gradually increase the volume slowly over time, as your pet is able to handle the sounds without getting stressed. Many stores carry "relaxation" types of music, and I have seen several rain/thunderstorm CDs available. This technique does require time and patience for it to be effective. Start slow, and do short sessions only at first. Praising the pet for remaining calm is important. Be careful not to overdo praising, you want the pet to feel that this is "situation normal" as much as possible.

On a related (summer) note ...

Please do not leave pets in cars at any time! Even if you are in the shade! Even with the windows open! Even if it is only 75 F degrees outside! Cars heat up amazingly fast, and add to that an animal that is excited or anxious at your departure, and heat stroke is a definite possibility.

Additional Reading

Summer Storms, Fireworks, And Cowering Pets
VPL’s Innovative Pheromones Help Animals Weather the Chaos

4th of July Survival Kit for Cats
Guidelines for helping your cat survive the holiday weekend with his health and sanity intact.

Dogs and Fireworks
Some owners are simply unaware of the effect these festivities have on their pets, and bring them to the party with them. Not a good idea!

"The Boom Box - Sammy in a Kennel" - Learn how a frightened dog can injure himself during New Year's fireworks, and how to desensitize pets to noise.

Behavior and Training links
Many behavioral and training resources.

Weather Links
Find information on both summer and winter problems - heatstroke, antifreeze poisoning, and more.

Summer Fun: Pet Safety
Have fun with your pet outdoors, and stay safe. Learn about common summertime dangers and how to prevent an emergency or a tragedy.

Pool Alert - Prevent a Tragedy
Don't overlook this common backyard danger. Also, how to recognize hypothermia, and what to do about it.

Beat the Heat!
From our Cats Guide, Franny Syufy. Excellent article on heat stroke, sunburn, and how to keep your cat cool.

Have a safe and happy holiday!

Text: Copyright © Janet Tobiassen Crosby. All rights reserved.

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