Here are 6 Ways to Keep Your Pets Calm During Fireworks. No matter what type of pet you have, if they don’t like loud noises, it’s stressful for everyone during the times of year when there are fireworks displays. And it’s not just a matter of keeping your pets indoors. In many areas, people are allowed to set off fireworks in residential neighborhoods, which brings the noise home. Here are some tips to make this time of year a little easier.
1. Create a safe space for your pet to keep them comfortable
If you kennel your pet, make sure their kennel is clean and comfy and let children or visitors know that they should be left alone while in the kennel. Crate training is a great way to give pets a safe space to be in that also signals they aren’t ready for interaction. This allows the pet to relax and know that no one will bother them. You can even move the kennel to an inside closet, if you have one big enough, to help muffle the noise further.
2. Walk or play with your pet before the fireworks start
Give your pet exercise and lots of attention before the action starts. If they are tired and worn out form playing, they won’t have quite as much energy to spend on anxiety.
3. Play white noise such as classical music or a TV show to mask the sound
White noise machines, TV shows, the radio, or a calming playlist can help drown out the noise outside while fireworks are happening. A quiet house will make the noise difference more noticeable when fireworks are going off.
4. Make sure your pet has proper ID should they get out
Double-check your pet’s ID tag and make sure everything is up to date in case they do get out of the house while they are scared. If your pet is chipped, make sure they have a tag that says so, and update your information with the microchip company.
5. Add a scoop of organic pumpkin puree to their diet
Nummy Tum-Tum Organic Pumpkin Puree is great for reducing anxiety as well as other health benefits! We’ve had customers tell us they give it to animals who don’t do well with visitors before new people come over to help ease the transition. If you’re not sure how much to give your pet, check our chart here.
6. Talk to your vet to discuss calming medication options as a backup
If these steps are not enough to keep your pet calm and comfortable during loud fireworks, check with your vet for additional steps you can take, such as pet-friendly CBD, thunder shirts, rescue remedy spray for pets, or prescription medication that can help them calm down.