With July 4th right around the corner, fireworks season is already in full bloom, Not only can coping with the noise be difficult for your pet, but a high volume of missing pets are reported around this time of year. The noise can be so frightening that unattended outdoor pets can run away! Here are some important tips and tricks for helping your pet get through this scary time more safely and comfortably.
- Don’t take your pet to a fireworks display. This may seem like common sense, but if it’s not the noise and lights, it’s the heat that could harm your pet.
- Don’t set off home fireworks around your pet. Also common sense, but be aware of Junior and his friends taking the dog outside with them to set off some firecrackers.
- Don’t allow your pets to go outside by themselves during this time of year. If you have a doggy door, shut it for the night of the 4th or other noisy evenings. Rather, go out with them for supervised, short potty breaks or playtime.
- If your pets do go outside, be sure they are collared with identification. The intense noise of fireworks can scare some pets so much they bolt and run away.
- Tire them out! Take dogs for a long walk or give pets extra playtime (indoors or outdoors, weather permitting) during the day before the fireworks start up.
- Have a travel kennel, crate or other safe space arranged inside the home for your pet. One of our sitters has had success with his cat by building a ‘tent’ on the bed (or in the closet) with sheets and pillows. He reports his cat felt very safe and could sleep inside it!
- Close blinds and shades. Pets will feel safer if they can’t see the flashing lights.
- Increase ambient noise, like a humidifier, or turn up your stereo or TV, to help drown out the noise (but also be careful not to create a secondary stressor with too much volume!)
- Cats may want to hide and not want extra attention; Dogs may want extra snuggles, treats, and attention.
- Sometimes a mild sedative can be helpful, but please contact your veterinarian for advice before trying this. There are also essential oils that you can diffuse to assist in calming your pet (contact us for more information about essential oils).
Here are some additional resources you may find helpful:
Enjoy the holiday and hopefully your pets will have a safer and more comfortable time with some of these tips! With love and snuggles, your PurrFurred Pet Care team.
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