Fireworks & Your Pet: Helping Dogs and Cats Cope with Holiday Anxiety
By Bluebonnet Animal Hospital
As we prepare for summer celebrations and patriotic holidays, it’s important to remember that fireworks can be terrifying for many pets. The loud noises, bright flashes, and vibrations can trigger severe anxiety, especially in dogs and cats with noise phobias.
At Bluebonnet Animal Hospital, we want to help you prepare and protect your pets from the stress of fireworks.
Common Signs of Firework Anxiety
- Hiding or escape attempts
- Panting, pacing, or trembling
- Urinating or defecating indoors
- Excessive vocalizing
- Clinginess or aggression
- Destructive behavior
How to Help Your Pet Cope
1. Create a Safe Space
Choose a quiet room, add blackout curtains, and play calming music or white noise. A cozy blanket or bed will help them feel more secure.
2. Use Desensitization Training
Play firework sounds at a low volume while rewarding your pet’s calm behavior with treats. Slowly increase the volume over time.
3. Try Calming Aids
Products like Adaptil® pheromone diffusers, Thundershirts®, or calming supplements like Zylkene® or melatonin can offer additional comfort.
4. Medication Options
If your pet needs extra support, medication can be a safe, effective tool for firework anxiety when used correctly:
- For dogs: We often prescribe trazodone to promote calmness without heavy sedation.
- For cats: We recommend gabapentin to ease anxiety and fear.
Medications should be given at least one hour before fireworks begin. Please contact us ahead of time to ensure your pet is set up for success.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t punish your pet for being scared—it will make their fear worse.
- Don’t confine them unless you are present and they feel safe in that space.
- Don’t ignore seasonal fears—phobias tend to worsen each year without treatment.
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Let’s Make This a Safe, Stress-Free Summer
We’re here to help with individualized treatment plans, training tips, and medication guidance.
Call or email us to discuss your pet’s needs before the fireworks begin.
