How to Keep Your Dog Safe and Comfortable During Firework Shows: Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday 🎆🐶
Fireworks can be so much fun for us, but for dogs, they’re often a source of fear, stress, and danger. Every year, so many pets go missing during the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve because of loud noises and unfamiliar activity. If you're a dog parent looking to keep your pup calm and safe during fireworks season, you’ve come to the right place!
In this post, we’ll share expert-backed tips on how to protect your dog during fireworks while prioritizing your pet’s comfort and happiness!
So, Why Are Dogs Scared of Fireworks?
Dogs have very sensitive hearing that’s about four times more acute than humans. So, the loud, unpredictable booms of fireworks can be quite startling for them. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), many dogs experience noise aversion, which can lead to destructive behavior, escape attempts, and anxiety [1].
1. Create a Safe Space Indoors 🏡
Make sure your dog is secure inside your home before fireworks start. Even if your pup usually enjoys being outside, the loud noises from fireworks may cause them to panic and flee. Setting up a cozy, familiar spot in a quiet room with their bed, toys, and maybe a crate if they find comfort in it can be helpful.
Pro tip: Play calming music or white noise to help muffle the sounds outside. You can even try Spotify’s “Calm Dogs” playlist.
2. Keep Them Occupied with Enrichment Toys 🧸
Distraction can be a very powerful tool with dogs. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, and long-lasting chews can keep your dog mentally stimulated and focused on something positive.
One of our favorite things is this Lickimat bowl → Lickimat Splash You can spread on a dog safe yogurt, peanut butter, or any other safe favorite to help occupy your pup from their stress. Want it to last extra long, throw the bowl and treat in the freezer ahead of time.
3. Use a ThunderShirt or Calming Wrap
Products like ThunderShirt® apply gentle pressure to your dog’s torso, helping reduce anxiety kind of like swaddling a baby. A 2014 study showed that over 80% of pet owners saw improvement in their dog’s stress levels using calming wraps [2].
Shop it → ThunderShirt
4. Try Natural Calming Aids 🌿
If your pup isn’t responding to distraction based remedies, consider vet-approved natural remedies like CBD oil for dogs and dog calming chews. Just please always consult your vet before trying new supplements, especially if your dog is on medication.
We recommend Suzies CBD → https://suziespettreats.com/
5. Stay Calm and Be Present
Your dog looks to you for cues, after all, you're their human. Stay calm and upbeat—even if they’re scared. But also try to avoid excessive coddling, which can reinforce this fearful behavior. Instead try and offer gentle reassurance with pets and soothing words.
6. Update Their ID Tags and Microchip Info
In case the worst happens and your pup bolts during a fireworks show, current, up to date identification is your best shot at a reunion.
Make sure:
- Their collar has a legible tag with your phone number
- Their microchip info is up to date
According to the American Humane Association, 1 in 3 pets go missing during their lifetime, and many during loud events like fireworks [3].
In general, we always recommend dogs to be leashed when outside, and always wearing an ID tag. A lost pup is every pet parent's worst nightmare, so preparing just in case can be significantly helpful.
7. Talk to Your Vet About Medications (If Needed)
If your pup is suffering from a severe noise phobia, despite natural remedies, distractions, and care, a vet may be able to help with an anti-anxiety medication. These can be helpful for some dogs during firework holidays or storms.
Final Barks
Fireworks don’t have to mean fear for your pup. With preparation, understanding, and a few helpful tools, you can make the celebration safe and stress-free for your dog! 🐾
Please note, that while we’ve used validated resources to back up this article, Brandi’s Pup Shop is not a vet. Please consult your veterinarian with all medical and safety related inquiries.
Don’t forget to share this post with fellow pup parents so more pups can stay safe this fireworks season!
Sources
[1] American Kennel Club – How to Keep Your Dog Calm During Fireworks https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/how-to-keep-your-dog-calm-during-fireworks/#:~:text=Create%20a%20Safe%20Haven%20for%20Your%20Dog&text=Try%20setting%20up%20an%20area,with%20familiar%20toys%20and%20treats.
[3] American Humane – Pet Microchipping Info https://www.americanhumane.org/post/attention-pet-owners-have-your-pet-microchipped/