“Noise phobia” is a common problem in dogs and cats and the July 4th holiday can be among the most trying times of the year for pets who can react with extreme fear and panic when they hear fireworks. While some pets may hide and tremble, others can cause destruction to property and personal items and can even injure themselves trying to escape their home or kennel while fireworks are going off. With a little help from you, your pet can get through July 4th without emotional or physical distress.
Here are some basic guidelines to help create a safe and happy holiday for you and your pet.
1. Plan ahead. Talk to your veterinarian about creating an environment and options, including medications, which may help comfort your pet.
2. Drown out the sound of the fireworks. Turn on music, TV, fan or “white noise” machine.
3. Keep your pet occupied with fun activities like a food-filled toy, play their favorite game with them.
4. Introduce a new toy or reintroduce favorites from the toy box that he hasn’t seen in a while.
5. Keep a positive attitude – be excited and happy and your pet will often follow.
6. Create a safe and soundproof location for your pet to go during fireworks.
7. Consider boarding your pet in a safe environment.
1. Punish your dog for their destructive or abnormal behavior. Punishment will not help improve behavior.
2. Entice your pet to get close or cuddle with you. While cuddling may seem like the most loving thing to do, in the long run, it will actually worsen your pet’s behavior by teaching that you are the only way to stay safe when he’s frightened. Cuddling doesn’t give your pet any instruction. It doesn’t tell him or her how they can stay safe. As a result, they never learn the tools that they need to feel calmer.
3. Take your pet to fireworks displays.