For many people, summer holidays like the Fourth of July are filled with excitement like BBQs, celebrations, and, of course, fireworks. But for pets, fireworks are often a source of confusion, fear, and stress. Westside Veterinary Hospital knows how overwhelming fireworks displays can be for our furry patients. There are steps pet owners can take to keep cats and dogs safe, calm, and protected, and we’re here to help guide the way.

Why Pets Are Afraid of Fireworks

What sounds like a celebration to us can feel like danger to your pet. Loud noises, sudden flashes, and unfamiliar smells trigger an instinctive fight-or-flight response, especially in pets with sound sensitivity. Common reactions to a firework going off include:

• Pacing or shaking
• Hiding under furniture
• Barking, whining, meowing, or howling
• Drooling or panting excessively
• Scratching at doors or attempting to escape
• Accidents in the house, even in fully house-trained pets

Steps to Help Your Pet Stay Calm During Fireworks

1. Create a Safe Space
Set up a quiet, cozy room where your pet feels secure. Use soft bedding, familiar toys, and even an item with your scent (like a worn T-shirt) to help them feel comforted.

2. Drown Out the Noise
Close windows and curtains to minimize flashes and muffle sound. Use a white noise machine, calming music, or even the TV to block out the fireworks.

3. Stay Calm Yourself
Pets feed off your energy. Keep your voice calm and your movements relaxed. If you act like everything’s fine, they’re more likely to believe it is.

4. Stick to the Schedule
If possible, stick to the usual schedule for routines like feeding, as this can keep things more normalized for your pet. 

5. Keep Pets Indoors
Even if your dog normally enjoys the backyard, fireworks can trigger panic. Make sure all pets are safely inside well before dark.

Don’t Forget These Firework Safety Measures

If your pet does bolt, proper identification is your best chance of getting them back. Make sure your pet is microchipped and that the information is up to date. Their collar should include a current ID tag with your contact info.

Check doors, windows, and fences for weaknesses. Even indoor cats have been known to dash out when startled by a loud noise. Make sure all exits out of your house are secure.

It might sound fun to include your dog in holiday outings, but large crowds and booming sounds can be traumatic, even for dogs who seem confident in other situations. Leave your dog in a boarding facility or at home if you are headed somewhere with a fireworks display.

What a Veterinarian Can Do for Your Pet’s Anxiety

If your pet has reacted poorly to fireworks in the past or you’re concerned about how they’ll handle the noise, a veterinarian can help. Schedule a wellness consultation and talk to your vet about:

• How to prepare for known stress triggers
• Safe, vet-approved calming medications
• Pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps
• Microchipping services

Get Your Pet Ready for Fireworks in Marietta, GA

Fireworks might be a celebration for people, but they can be a nightmare for pets. With a little preparation, some calming techniques, and support from your veterinary team, your pet can get through the celebrations feeling safe, loved, and secure. Westside Veterinary Hospital has veterinary services for cats and dogs in Marietta and from surrounding communities like Smyrna and Fair Oaks. If you need help getting your pet prepared for fireworks this year, contact us to set up an appointment.