Helping Your Pet Handle Fireworks and Thunderstorms

Summer is officially here, and that means the return of sunny days, outdoor fun, and fireworks. From holiday festivities to afternoon thunderstorms, there is no shortage of loud noises and flashing lights that your pet may have to contend with. For many pets, fireworks and thunder can cause severe fear and anxiety. 

“It’s common for a pet to be anxious during fireworks and other loud noises, but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored,” says Dr. Erica Irish of Pet Paradise + NewDay Veterinary Care. “Noise-related fear can be caused by a variety of factors: temperament, age, pet history, breed, environmental factors, and more.” 

Studies show that at least 30% of dogs suffer from “noise aversion,” otherwise known as “noise anxiety,” a condition where loud noises (like fireworks and thunder) cause extreme anxiety in pets. This condition can reduce your pet’s quality of life, causing stress, suffering, and even undesirable behaviors. Noise-related fears can be very similar to panic attacks in humans. 

While not all pets are upset by loud sounds, others can become so anxious they may hurt themselves, panic, and bolt through doors to try to escape. Citing a 30%-60% increase in lost pets between July 4th and 6th, some animal shelters, like the Heritage Humane Society of Williamsburg, Virginia, call July 4th “The Day of Missing Pets.” 

“The important thing to remember is that pet parents can help their animals cope with noise aversion. The first step is to recognize the signs of fear and anxiety during loud noises so they can work together to improve their symptoms,” says Dr. Irish.

Signs of Anxiety 

Not sure whether your dog or cat is anxious about loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms? Be on the lookout for these common signs of fear in pets:

• Panting, lip-licking, or drooling
• Vocalizing or frequent yawning
• Trembling, pacing, or inability to rest
• Hiding under beds or behind furniture
• Attention-seeking behaviors
• Escape attempts
• Drinking more water than usual
• Refusing to eat or take treats 

Here’s the good news: even after your pet develops fear or anxiety of loud noises, studies show that working with your pet to overcome their fear is worthwhile and will help them significantly improve, with or without medication. And the sooner you start, the better.  

Noise aversion can sometimes become a vicious cycle, making other anxiety issues worse. According to Dr. Irish, “It’s in your pet’s best interest to help them build resilience and safely manage their anxiety.” Frankly, learning how to handle stressful situations has limitless benefits for both animals and humans, too! We’ve got some expert tips on where to begin. 

Overcoming Fear: Behavior Modification Strategies 

• Stay home with your pet during fireworks. You’ll be able to monitor them and make sure they’re safe and comfortable during loud noises. Remember to remain calm and try not to appear distressed, as your pet looks to you for guidance on how they should feel, too!
• Play calming music or white noise to help drown out the sound of the fireworks.
• Distract your pet with treats and games. “By giving your pet their favorite treats or toys during fireworks or thunderstorms, you’ll teach them to associate the event with rewards instead of fear,” says Dr. Irish. “Long-lasting treats like stuffed Kongs, lick mats, or bully sticks will help distract your dog for a while.”
• Make sure your pet has a safe space to hide during loud noises. If your pet is simply too nervous to accept a treat, you can also teach them to cope with their fear in a healthy, non-destructive way. Give your pet a place to hide that makes them feel secure and safe. Keep them company and be sure to close the blinds to ensure they can’t see any of the flashing lights associated with loud noises.
• Plan on exercising with your dog early in the day. Exercise can be very helpful in preparing for stressful events. To help ensure that your dog is calm and sleepy at night, try playing a long game of fetch in the morning or take an extended walk with lots of sniff breaks. Dog daycare is also a helpful solution. Drop them off for a day of fun at day camp; they’re sure to be happy and tuckered out when you pick them up!
• Ask your vet about medication well in advance. It is often better to manage a fearful reaction before it escalates. That’s why a short-term sedative might be helpful for your pet. According to Dr. Irish, “Always consult your veterinarian when considering medications to help your pet cope with noise-related anxiety. There are several options, from over-the-counter supplements to prescription medications, and your veterinarian can make the best recommendation based on your pet’s specific needs.” Talk to your vet or visit NewDay before the summer holidays, and make sure to test any new medications on your pet before the event to see the effect they have.
• Try a pet pheromone spray like Feliway for cats or ThunderEase (Adaptil) for dogs. These sprays help soothe animals by mimicking the natural pheromones their mothers produced when they were puppies and kittens. Use the pheromone spray on your pet's favorite blanket, bed, or stuffed animal.
• Use a pressure wrap like a Thundershirt. The gentle pressure feels like a hug and can have a dramatic calming effect on many pets. 

Firework and Thunderstorm Safety Checklist

We recommend taking a few extra precautions to keep your pet safe during loud noises. Being proactive can prevent accidents, reduce the risk of escape, and increase the chances of a safe return if your pet does get lost. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your dog or cat secure during fireworks and other loud noises.

• Keep your pet’s collar and tags on, and make sure your information is legible and up to date on the tags. 
• Be sure your pets are microchipped. According to the American Veterinary medical Association (AVMA), lost dogs with microchips are returned to their owners at a rate of 52.2% compared to less than 22% for dogs without microchips. Microchipped cats are returned at a rate of over 38% versus less than 2% of cats who are not microchipped. If your pet needs a microchip, make an appointment with NewDay Veterinary Care before the summer holidays. 
• Keep your pet on a leash for potty breaks, or, better yet, try to schedule their yard time around the loud noises to avoid needing to go outside.
• Make sure cats stay indoors at all times. Loud noises and flashing lights can startle them, increasing the risk of disorientation or injury if they panic and run.
• Know which animal hospitals will be open near you. Make a list of your local veterinary clinics and emergency animal hospitals in case of emergency. 

Fireworks and other loud noises can be a scary experience for your pet, but they don’t have to be! By recognizing the signs of noise aversion and treating them early, you can help your pet feel safer and more comfortable.