Fireworks and Pets: Tips on Staying Safe this Summer

Summer celebrations and fireworks seem to go hand-in-hand, especially when you are thinking of the Fourth of July.  Fireworks can be a lot of fun for people, but to some pets, they are a reason to panic. Here are ways to be prepared for summer night firework shows.

If your pet is afraid of loud noise:

• Turning on calming music and moving your pet to an interior room without windows can be helpful.
• Keep your pet's plastic kennel out so they have a home within a home to go to if they are anxious during fireworks.
• Make sure your pet has a pet bed to snuggle in
• Talk to your vet and see if anti-anxiety medication will help the situation
• Check-in on your pet frequently to make sure they are okay

If your pet likes to taste new things:

• Typically, cats are a little smarter than this, but some dogs will eat ANYTHING.
• Fireworks are made of chemicals and heavy metals so clean up the area where you are doing fireworks before letting your dog have access to the area.

Independence Day is the day where more pets get lost than any other day of the year.  Be prepared this summer and make sure your pet has a collar with their name tag on and get them microchipped.   

Sources:

1. https://www.aspca.org/news/fireworks-and-your-pet-tips-staying-safe-fourth-july