We cannot stress enough that most people do not realize how many animals are terrified by fireworks. It's not just the noise, it's the burning smell and the shaking they feel through the ground from large explosions. Any one of these things could cause even a well-adjusted dog to become uneasy, but when all are happening at the same time the likelihood of them bolting in fear increases. Keep in mind that if you have a dog who already freaks out with thunderstorms or gunshots you have a candidate for fireworks panic. Think. Plan ahead. Connect the dots before your pet goes missing. Below are some suggestions for ensuring that your animals are safely secured if you must leave them, along with some ways to minimize their anxiety.
How to prepare: Animals should be indoors, safely away from the noise and the smells of the fireworks. This means in a secure room, ideally without windows, located in the center of the home perhaps where the sounds might be less frightening. Make sure to have some background noise such as a radio or tv.
Group planning: One of the phrases you have likely seen many times on our page is to "involve the whole family". Have a discussion with ALL members of the household regarding where the pets will be staying, who is allowed to take them outside, the importance of closing doors and ensuring that collars with ID tags remain on the animal. Even little kids can grasp the simple concept of Fido or Fluffy becoming scared and maybe running out of the house. We believe that starting early with education on topics such as this can play a large role in missing pet prevention. Don't forget to review this info with your visitors and guests as well!
Calming options: If your animal is extremely fearful, ask your vet for suggestions. Perhaps they will have recommendations to try such as a Thundershirt or even possibly a prescription. Remember to NEVER give animals any medications designed for humans.
ID Matters: Make sure animals have their license or identification tag on their collar, including microchip info. Don't forget to keep all microchip and ID tag information if anything has changed (if it isn't, do that today)
Use common sense. Don't take your dog to the fireworks display where they will be right underneath the noise. Many animals who do get loose during events like this unfortunately often run into traffic in a blind panic. Leave them home.
Established in 2011 as Delmarva's original lost pet network, we now cover Sussex County, Delaware along with the lower eastern shore of Maryland and Accomack & Northampton Counties in Virginia.
