The Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve, and other major fireworks holidays may be exciting for you, but they can be terrifying for your pet. While some animals enjoy watching the festivities, many more are desperate to escape from the unfamiliar lights and noise. Even a small backyard display can be enough to send more sensitive pets into a frenzy, while major neighborhood shows can test the resolve of even the most even-tempered animals. Here are 6 ways to help your pet get through the night unscathed.
1. Offer a Safe Space
When pets become frightened, their natural instinct is often to withdraw. Small, tight, dark spaces help them to feel like they are more in control of their environment. If your pet has a favorite hiding spot, such as under the bed, make sure it is open and available. If not, try creating a soft shelter in the bathtub or in a small closet. Never try to force your pet to acclimate to the sound, which could cause him to become aggressive. Let her retreat and do not try to coax her out.
2. Control the Boundaries
Pets can become surprisingly talented escape artists when they are afraid, so do everything you can to control their boundaries. Close your pet inside an interior room of your home, making sure that windows are tightly locked. If you allow your pet outside, maintain a short leash at all times. Never let pets come and go at will during fireworks shows, and make sure they cannot get out when you open the door.
3. Prepare for Escapes
Despite your best efforts, your pet might find a way out of your home. Prepare for this possibility in advance by checking your pet’s identification. Make sure tags are up to date with your current address and telephone number, and consider having your pet microchipped. Also be sure that your pet has proof of a current rabies vaccination.
4. Provide Company
Having a trusted human nearby can help to calm a frightened pet. Sit in the same room if possible, providing hugs and cuddles as needed. If you will be going out for the evening, ask a friend or relative, preferably one that your pet knows, to sit with him. As a last resort, consider a kennel or professional pet sitter, but keep in mind that the animal will be more stressed out in unfamiliar circumstances.
5. Behave Normally
Although company can help your pet calm down, being overprotective or coddling can make your pet believe there is something to fear. Avoid the tendency to hold her more tightly during each bang and flash, or to let her get away with bad behavior such as chewing or ripping things apart.
If you are the type to jump and flinch at loud noises and bright lights, you might not be the best person to sit with your pet during this time. He will pick up on your fear and become even more terrified. Instead, consider passing this duty to a calm, unflappable loved one who will project the sense that it is just a normal evening.
6. Consider Swaddling
Some pets do best when they are tightly snuggled into a comfortable wrap. Either gently wrap your pet in a blanket, ensuring that it is snug but does not constrict breathing or movement, or try a product known as a Thundershirt, which provides the same effect. Check with your veterinarian in advance, as pets with certain health conditions should not be swaddled, and you need to know how to safely swaddle without causing potential injuries.
Although some animals cope with fireworks just fine, or even seem to enjoy them, they are generally in the minority. Many pets are terrified by the lights and noise, and can work themselves into a frenzy. Make a plan for your pet well in advance, provide a safe space, and have someone sit calmly with him, and both you and your pet should make it comfortably through the night.
At Dynamite Fireworks, we don’t only sell top-quality, name-brand fireworks. We also provide the information you need to know to use them responsibly, legally, and safely. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at (219) 937-4090. We look forward to becoming your one-stop shop for all your fireworks needs!