Did you know that the Fourth of July is one of the top days of the year when pets run away?
According to a recent report from The Kennel Club in England, 80% of dog owners report that their dogs show anxious behavior during a fireworks display. The loud sounds and bright flashes of light trigger the “flight, fight, or freeze” effect in animals as they perceive it as a threat or harm.
Here are a few tips to keep your pets safe and calm when the fireworks start.
Keep Your Pet Comfortable
Out of sight, out of mind works for many pets. If they can’t see it or hear it, they won’t be afraid. A white noise machine, TV, or music can help reduce their stress levels as it distracts from the loud “boom” of the fireworks. A place separate from windows and doors, with a nice comfortable bed or blankets is the best solution to keep your pet comfortable.
For dogs and cats, a thunder shirt is a great option. It provides a calming sensation while keeping them comfy and cozy, causing anxiety levels to be lower.
Your pets can sense and react based off your mood, so try to remain calm, relaxed, and collected if your pet seems stressed. It will help soothe their anxiety.
Say Yes to Treats
High value treats that pets absolutely love can help them focus on something besides the scary noises outside. Bonus points if you put them in puzzle toys for extra enrichment! Digestible, frozen, or training treats are great ways to keep your pet occupied.
If needed, calming treats with melatonin or CBD for your pet can be purchased from your local pet store. The treats are often made from all-natural ingredients and can help with pets’ mood and anxiety.
You should also try to keep things like sparklers, fireworks, charcoal, or glowsticks away from your pets to avoid poisoning.
Go for a Run (or Two) Before Fireworks Begin
Playing with your pet all day means they will be out of energy by the time the stressful noises begin. Take your pet to the park to have fun, but make sure to get back in time before the fireworks begin. Remember that fireworks may be set off throughout the days before and after the Fourth of July, so try to keep your dog on a leash and head home if they look too stressed. You can also tire your dog out by playing in a fenced park, a backyard, or in the house. If you take your pet out of the house, make sure they have a collar and tags so they can be brought home if they run away.
Plan and Be Prepared
When you leave your pet indoors, make sure the windows and doors are secured. The same also goes with the outdoors. Close your gate and block any spots around a fence they can squeeze under in a panic. If you decide to go for a walk, a double leash will help you keep an extra close hold of your pet.
If you find a pet:
If you find a pet in the Northern Nevada area, visit our friends at Pet Station or your local vet clinic to use their microchip scanner in hopes of finding the owner. The found furry friend and their owner will thank you!
Additionally, you can hold onto the pet until the next day and then take it to Washoe County Regional Animal Services and help find their family. Holding onto a pet until the day after the Fourth of July can help alleviate the pressure that County and their services face after busy holidays.
Remember to keep your own pet on a leash, with a collar, and their tags secured.