Fireworks may be a blast for us humans, but for our furry friends, they can be downright terrifying. If your pets turn into anxious wrecks every time the sky lights up, you’re not alone. Here is the inside scoop on how to keep your dogs and cats calm when the fireworks go boom.

Why Do Fireworks Freak Out Pets?

First, let’s talk about why fireworks scare the fur off our pets:

  • Loud Noises: Pets have super-sensitive hearing. The loud bangs and explosions can be overwhelming.
  • Bright Lights: Flashing lights can confuse and frighten them.
  • Unpredictability: Pets don’t understand what’s happening, which adds to their anxiety.

Signs Your Pet Is Stressed

Keep an eye out for these signs of anxiety:

  • Pacing or Restlessness: Your pet can’t seem to settle down.
  • Panting and Drooling: More than usual, even if it’s not hot.
  • Hiding: They might seek out a safe spot under the bed or in a closet.
  • Barking or Whining: Non-stop vocalization can be a cry for help.
  • Trembling: Shaking like a leaf during a storm.

Calm Your Pets Like a Pro

Here’s how to help your pets stay zen during the next fireworks show:

  1. Create a Safe Space: Set up a cozy, quiet area where your pet can retreat. A room with closed curtains and some calming music can work wonders.
  2. Sound Masking: Play calming music or white noise to drown out the fireworks. Classical music or a special pet playlist can help soothe their nerves.
  3. Comfort and Reassure: Spend time with your pet. Pet them, talk to them in a soothing voice, and let them know everything is okay.
  4. Desensitization: In the long run, you can help your pet get used to loud noises by playing recordings of fireworks at a low volume and gradually increasing the volume over time.

Pharmacist-Approved Solutions

When it comes to calming meds, here are a few options often recommended:

  1. CBD Oil: Many pet owners swear by CBD oil for anxiety. It’s a natural option that can help calm your pet without major side effects. Just make sure to get a pet-specific product and check with your vet first.
  2. Over-the-Counter Supplements: Products like melatonin or calming chews with ingredients like L-theanine, chamomile, and valerian root can be helpful. Always check the dosage and consult your vet.
  3. Prescription Medications: For severe anxiety, your vet might prescribe medications like trazodone, alprazolam, or gabapentin. These should be used under veterinary guidance and for short-term relief.
  4. Adaptil for Dogs / Feliway for Cats: These synthetic pheromone products mimic the natural calming pheromones of dogs and cats. They come in sprays, collars, or diffusers and can help reduce stress.

Plan Ahead

  • Talk to Your Vet: Before giving any medication or supplement, check with your vet. They can provide the best advice based on your pet’s health history.
  • Start Early: If you know fireworks are coming, start preparing your pet a few days in advance with supplements or by setting up their safe space.

Stay Safe

  • Keep Pets Indoors: Make sure your pets are inside during the fireworks. A scared pet might run away if they’re outside.
  • ID Tags and Microchips: Ensure your pet’s ID tags are up-to-date and consider getting them microchipped in case they do escape.

Fireworks don’t have to be a nightmare for your pets. With a little preparation and some pharmacist-approved strategies, you can help your furry friends stay calm and collected.

Stay safe, and keep those tails wagging!

References

  • Gruen, M. E., et al. (2015). “The Use of Alprazolam for Fear-Related Behaviors in Dogs: A Pilot Study.” Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 10(1), 56-62. DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2014.10.006.
  • Landsberg, G. M., et al. (2015). “Therapeutic Use of Pheromones in Dogs and Cats.” Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 45(3), 365-378. DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2014.11.004.
  • Sheppard, G., & Mills, D. S. (2003). “Evaluation of Dog-Appeasing Pheromone as a Potential Treatment for Dogs Fearful of Fireworks.” Veterinary Record, 152(14), 432-436. DOI: 10.1136/vr.152.14.432.
  • Kogan, L. R., et al. (2016). “Dog Owners’ Use and Perceptions of Products and Techniques to Treat Canine Anxiety.” Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 248(5), 518-519. DOI: 10.2460/javma.248.5.518.
  • Mariti, C., et al. (2015). “Effects of CBD-Based Products on Anxiety and Stress in Dogs: A Review.” Animals, 9(8), 537. DOI: 10.3390/ani9080537.