You know the signs: trembling, drooling, hiding in the bathroom, closet, or under the bed. For most animals, July 4th is more a time for panic than for celebration. Fireworks not only scare animals, but they also lead to many animals being displaced from their homes when they seek to run from the noise of fireworks. Fireworks can affect all animals adversely, not just dogs and cats, but for companion animals there are some things you can do to try and ease your animals’ anxiety and make sure they’re safe.

Carefully secure your home and bring all animals inside for the entire evening.

Lessen the impact of the offending bangs and booms:
-Use white noise to try and block out the offending fireworks. Turn on a fan, air conditioner, TV, or music.
-Close windows and blinds or curtains.
-Move your animal companions to a more soundproof part of the house, like the basement or an inner room of the house.
-Set up a safe place. Many animals will be more comfortable in a small room, like a bathroom or closet – try moving their bed or kennel to that space.
-Use a calming over-the-counter therapy like Rescue Remedy. For more anxious animals, seek a veterinarian prescribed relaxant.
-Project a calm attitude towards your animals and reassure them.
-Thundershirts have proven to be effective in helping to calm anxious animals. Something as simple as a blanket might also help.

If the worst case scenario happens and your animal somehow manages to flee the house, make sure they have every option available to be reunited with you:
-Make sure your animals are micro-chipped and that the chip is registered with current address and contact information.
-Make sure they’re wearing a collar with proper identification.
-Make sure you have current photos of your animals should you need to place signs around your neighborhood.

We hope you and your animals have a happy and safe 4th of July weekend.