Fireworks

Suggestions to keep your pets safe and comfortable during Fourth of July activities

Fireworks

Monday, October 12, 2015 | NHS Behavior Department

Independence Day comes once a year and is full of fun, festivities and fireworks. If your pet has a hard time during the Fourth of July, here are a few suggestions to keep him safe and comfortable. 

Keep your pet indoors

  • Select a room most insulated from the noise outside. Turn on the TV or radio to provide some background noise. Close the curtains. Provide a protective comfort zone, such as under a bed or in an open closet for your cat (place food, water and litter box nearby), or kennel for your dog. Place a blanket with familiar smells in this area to help soothe your pet.
  • If you’re having a party, keep your pet out of the middle of the festivities. Discourage guests from feeding your pet scraps from the barbecue – rich, unfamiliar foods can add to your pet’s discomfort. 

Outdoor safety

  • If your pet must go outside, keep him on a leash or in a carrier at all times. A sudden noise can cause an animal to bolt. 
  • Give your dog a chance to go potty before the fireworks really get underway. Your dog may be too scared to go later. 
  • Make sure your pet is wearing a secure collar with proper ID. If the worst happens and your pet gets loose, proper identification gives him a better chance of getting home safely.

Practice fire safety

  • Keep your pet away from ALL fire activity. This includes fireworks, matches, grills, etc. Pet hair can catch fire easily. Spent fireworks on the ground can remain hot for some time and may burn a curious pet’s nose, mouth or paws.

Comfort

Here are some calming solutions that can help soothe your pet’s anxieties: 

  • Thundershirts™ act like a swaddle for animals.The shirt has pressure points to help calm the animal during stressful events.
  • A calming pheromone collar releases natural calming pheromones that the animal wears 24/7. The collar lasts 30 days.
  • A calming pheromone diffuser releases natural calming pheromones through a diffuser you plug into the wall near the animal’s favorite spot.
  • Have your pet focus on a delicious treat like a stuffed kong. This can be a great “pacifier” for your pet. There are a variety of foods you can use to stuff the Kong: pieces of their kibble or treats, peanut butter, canned (wet) food, mashed potatoes, baby food, banana, etc. Mix it, stuff it and freeze it ahead of time. Offer it to your pet before the excitement begins so the pet has a chance to become invested. 

Have a safe and happy holiday!

More tips from WOWT »

You Can Help Save A Life

Adopt A New Best Friend

You are the answer to providing homeless pets a second chance. Adopt, don’t shop and offer deserving pets a bright future.

Adopt Today

Help An Animal

Rescuing, Rehabilitating and Rehoming animals is not cheap…but it’s the right thing to do. Help us fund lifesaving treatments and programs.

Donate Today

Get Involved

You can make a huge difference in the lives of shelter animals  by offering your time and TLC. 

Get Involved

E-Newsletter Signup

Sign up to receive our quarterly newsletter with Nebraska Humane Society news, resources and stories or update your info.

Get Social With Us!



NHS is a not for profit 501-C3 organization; EIN: 47-0378997. Copyright © 2024 Nebraska Humane Society. All Rights Reserved.
8929 Fort Street Omaha, Nebraska 68134
402-444-7800

Designed by Blackbaud