While many Americans look on in awe and enjoy the booming fireworks the 4th of july can be a difficult time for dog owners and a stressful time for those petswho may feel scared or anxious about the fireworks and need help to calm down.
Loud fireworks can easily scare pets. Data shows that nearly one in five lost pets go missing after being startled by loud noises, such as fireworks, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Staycee Dains of Los Angeles Animal Services told CBS Los Angeles that she is concerned that shelters will be flooded with runaway pets after the Fourth of July.
Veterinarians and animal care experts explain why fireworks can scare your pet, what you can do to prepare them for Patriot's Day, and how to keep them calm during fireworks games.
Preparing the 4th of July fireworks
America's veterinarians, along with the ASPCA, Rover, the American Kennel Club, Purina and PetMD, have shared tips to prepare pets for the Fourth of July.
Make sure animals have ID tags or microchips registered with your current contact information in case they run away.
Before the holidays, it can be helpful to get pets used to the types of noises they may encounter. Pet owners can play fireworks noises at low levels for short periods of time while feeding pets treats and repeat this process over time. The volume of the fireworks noise can be gradually increased during training sessions as your pet becomes more comfortable.
Owners can also purchase earmuffs made especially for dogs before the holidays. They are also best when phased in before the fireworks.
There is also anti-anxiety medication available for pets, but Dr. Carly Fox of Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in New York City told CBS New York that they should be reserved for extreme cases. Fox suggests contacting a vet before the holidays and trying any medications before the Fourth of July.
“It's really helpful because it gives you an idea of ​​how sedated your pet will be,” Fox said. “You don't want your pet to be over-sedated or under-sedated on the day you really need the medication to work.”
On the holiday, experts also suggest tiring your pet out before the fireworks start.
Tips for protecting animals during fireworks displays
While there are techniques to prepare, there are also plenty of tips for keeping pets calm while the fireworks are going off. Vets say pets should be kept indoors during fireworks, with curtains and blinds closed. They advise not to leave a frightened dog home alone during fireworks.
Owners can try distracting a pet with high-value treats. Putting treats in puzzle toys can give your pet something to focus on beyond the fireworks.
Soothing music or white noise can also be a distraction.
A pet can seek the safety of a crate when fireworks go off. If your pet is crate trained or sleeps in a specific room, keep the door open. If the noise makes them panic, they might run and hurt themselves with a closed door.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said if you take a dog outside, you should make sure keep them tied — even in an enclosed area — because they might run because of an unexpected noise.
Horses and livestock must be kept securely locked in their barns or barns, Michigan officials said.
After the fireworks are over, check your yard for fireworks debris before allowing pets outside.
Why do fireworks affect animals?
Animals have a much better sense of hearing than humans, said veterinarian Dr. Ruth MacPete at CBS Los Angeles.
“A lot of pets are downright terrified by all the loud noises and flashing lights,” she said.
According to veterinary specialists in the Rockies, booming sounds can trigger the fight-or-flight response in dogs. The unpredictable nature of noises can also frighten dogs, according to the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.
“As humans, we understand and look forward to the annual tradition of fireworks, especially around the Fourth of July, but this concept is alien to our dogs, and many get really scared if suddenly exposed to the loud sounds and sights scary things associated with fireworks,” Dr. Sandra Mitchell, a veterinarian at Animal Medical Associates in Saco, Maine, told Pet Site Chewy.
Signs of anxiety to look for
Experts told CBS New York that there is various signs of anxiety in dogs to watch out for the Fourth of July. They suggest paying attention to the following:
- Urinate or defecate inside
- drooling
- panting
- destructive behavior
- depression
- Excessive barking
- the rhythm
- restlessness
- Repetitive or compulsive behaviors
More 4th of July Pet Safety Tips to Consider
Charcoal, barbecue grills and spit skewers can harm pets, warns the American Veterinary Medical Association. Food safety is very important every day, but especially during the holidays when there are people around your pet who don't know what types of food are okay to eat.
Pets need it avoid chocolate, onions, grapes and raisins, fatty and fried foods, macadamia nuts, avocados and products containing xylitol, an artificial sweetener. Alcohol, citrus fruits, salty foods and leavened dough can also be dangerous for pets. Avoid feeding pet corn on the cob, as large pieces can cause blockages.
