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Frightening fireworks -

Many animals show signs of fear when they see and hear fireworks. And it's not surprising—
all those explosions, and no way of knowing what's happening! It's not just dogs and cats, either. Small animals kept in hutches outdoors can get a big fright, too.

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Signs of stress in dogs -

If you have a dog, their signs of anxiety might include trembling, barking, cowering behind furniture, refusing to eat, or even attempting to run away. Unsociable behavior like biting, growling, or soiling the house are common, too.

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Signs of stress in cats -

Cat owners should watch out for similar behavior patterns, and may find the cat more inclined to scratching, or hiding away on the top of furniture.

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Smaller animals -

Fireworks can be frightening for smaller animals, too. Partially cover outdoor hutches, and consider moving them indoors if that's an option. Make sure the animal has plenty of bedding to burrow down into.

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Walk dogs during daylight hours -

In the days leading up to fireworks events, be sure to walk your dog during daylight hours. Leaving this until the night of a fireworks display could disrupt their routine. It's a good idea to feed them early, too, in case they refuse food when the fireworks begin.

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Keep the garden escape-proof -

As many animals feel the instinct to bolt when frightened, make sure the home and garden are as escape-proof as possible. Try to keep dogs and cats inside, and be extra careful if guests are coming and going.

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Make sure your cat is microchipped -

Cats can be a particular flight risk during fireworks, particularly if they have access to a cat flap. If you haven't already made sure their microchip details are up to date, now's the time to do it.

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Doggy details should be accurate -

While it's often easier to keep dogs indoors, it's important to double-check that they are chipped with the relevant details. That way dog and owner can be speedily reunited if they do run off.

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Turn on the TV -

The noise of the television can help muffle the sound of fireworks and provide a visual distraction. it's a good idea to turn on the television to a comfortable level, and snuggle up with your pet.

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Radio can work wonders -

Turning on the radio is another good option.  Classical music can have a calming effect on many animals, for instance. Or put on your favorite tracks and sing along if you want an extra layer of sound to distract your pet!

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Keep them company -

As much as you might want to go out and enjoy the fireworks displays yourself, your pet will  appreciate some company when things get noisy and scary.

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Close the curtains -

It's not just the noise of fireworks that can be alarming for animals, but also the flashes of light. When night falls, close the curtains and create a cozy, safe place for your pets.

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Keep the lights bright indoors -

Keeping indoor lights bright can help reduce the impact of all those firework flashes coming from outdoors. If you usually dim the lights during the evening, keep things brighter in the nights leading up to a big fireworks event.

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Keep calm and carry on -

Your pet may become extra needy when they're anxious, so be sure to give them extra cuddles and even their favorite treats. But don't overdo it—acting overly protective could give them the impression that something is wrong.

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Create hiding spaces -

Dogs and cats often look to hide away from the frightening cracks and bangs. Easy-to-access, safe spaces around the home can help them feel secure. You might even want to buy or make them a den.

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Give them space -

Don't confine animals to one room, as this may add to their anxiety. Make sure dogs and cats can roam to any comforting safe spaces in your home.

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Be careful! -

A heavy sheet draped over a table can create a cozy, comforting den for a dog. Just be sure there is nothing breakable on the top, or you could both get a fright!

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Something to chew on -

A long-lasting chew or treat-filled puzzle toy can help keep dogs distracted during fireworks displays.

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Doggy earmuffs -

If your dog is fearful around thunder, fireworks are likely to frighten them too. Before any major fireworks events, it might be worth buying some specialty doggy ear muffs to help reduce the noise. They might need some practice getting used to them before fireworks roll around.

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Calming remedies -

There are a number of calming remedies to help pets during anxious times. These might be edible oils that can be given via a dropper, or essential oils that can be applied to collars.

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Edible essences -

Calming flower essences and CBD oil are options that can help soothe an anxious animal.

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Calming pheromones -

Essential oils and calming pheromones can also be found as sprays and diffusers. Pet pheromone products mimic those found in nature, and promote an instinctive calming response in animals.

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Family time -

Make sure younger members of the family are aware that their pet may behave differently during fireworks season. The displays and events are so exciting for children, they might be unaware that it's not so much fun for pets.

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Favorite bedding -

If your cat or dog has a favorite blanket or cushion, make sure it's available to them. Finding their comfort blanket has been thrown in the wash could be an extra source of stress.

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Desensitization training -

In the run-up to fireworks season, you might want to consider desensitization training. Essentially, this involves exposing pets to lower levels of frightening sounds, via a fireworks CD or online sound effects.

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Gradual exposure -

The training sessions should begin several weeks before any forthcoming fireworks events, and visual stimuli can also be added to help prepare for startling flashes.

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Unexpected fireworks -

It's worth remembering that fireworks tend to be let off quite frequently around major holidays. Where possible, take care to walk dogs and provide company for pets in the days leading up to, and following, major celebrations.

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A space for strays -

Stray cats can be just as alarmed by the bangs and flashes as house cats. If it's an option, consider leaving a shed or garage door open to allow any strays or feral cats to seek shelter from the sensory assault.

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Talk to your vet -

If your pet has shown extreme anxiety around fireworks, thunder, or other loud noises in the past, you might speak to your vet about the best course of action. 

Sources: (RSPCA) (American Kennel Club) (My Family Vets)

See also: Could drones be the new fireworks?

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