Keeping Your Pet's Calm This Summer

The 4th of July is right around the corner. While the festivities, fireworks, and backyard barbecues may be fun for us, this holiday can be one of the most stressful nights of the year for our pets. More pets go missing on July 4th than any other day of the year — and with good reason.

Fireworks are the primary culprit. The sudden, unpredictable booms and flashes trigger the fight-or-flight response in many animals. Dogs may bolt through fences, scratch through doors, or injure themselves trying to escape the noise. Cats often hide for hours or days. The fear is real and physiological — not something they can simply 'get over.'

Keep pets indoors during fireworks displays, even if they seem calm. Close windows and curtains to muffle sound and block flashing lights. Turn on a TV, radio, or white noise machine to provide a competing sound. Create a comfortable hiding spot — under a bed, in a closet, or in a crate — where your pet can feel safe.

Exercise your pet earlier in the day. A tired pet is less reactive. A long walk or vigorous play session in the afternoon can help take the edge off before the fireworks begin. Avoid walks in the evening when fireworks may start unexpectedly.

Consider calming aids. There are many options available, from anxiety wraps like Thundershirts to calming supplements containing melatonin or L-theanine. For pets with severe anxiety, your vet may prescribe a short-term anti-anxiety medication. Start any new intervention before the holiday to assess effectiveness.

Make sure your pet's ID tags are current and their microchip is registered before the holiday. If your pet does escape, up-to-date identification is their best chance of coming home. Take a current photo of your pet and keep it on your phone in case you need to make lost pet flyers quickly.