There are two times a year when we see an uptick in lost pets — New Year’s Eve and July Fourth. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have pets inside, safe and secure during the festivities for these holidays.
Fireworks are frightening to some animals and can cause them to go into flight mode. They want to run away from the loud bangs, booms and bright flashes of lights.
Even animals that are normally tolerant of lights or loud sounds such as lightning and thunder can become anxious when they hear fireworks. Dogs will jump fences, dig under fences, break through fences and run out of open doors. If there is a way to escape, fear-riddled pets will find a way to do it.
Dogs that are experiencing fireworks-induced anxiety may show it in a variety of ways. It’s important to recognize the signs that a pet may be feeling stressed.
These can include:
- Whining or barking
- Panting
- Shaking
- Pacing
- Hiding
- Trying to escape
- Decreased appetite
- Drooling
- Bathroom accidents
- Dilated pupils or wide eyes
- Vomiting
Every year, I write about fireworks because every year without fail, my social networks are flooded with posts of lost and found animals on Jan. 1 and July 5.
Here are tips to keep the pets safe and secure so we know their whereabouts on Jan. 1:
1. LEAVE THE PETS AT HOME: It is never a good idea to take the dog to a fireworks display or to have them outside when setting off fireworks. Dogs that are not frightened might try to chase and catch fireworks and, as a result, can be seriously injured. This can lead to a whole new level of problems.
2. INSIDE IS BEST: Provide pets with a safe, quiet and secure area within the house. This is especially important if no one will be home with the pet. Turning up a television or radio to help buffer the noise from outside will also help minimize stress. A fun chew toy or Kong filled with a treat can also be a great distraction.
3. TIMING IS IMPORTANT: We never know when the celebrations will begin or end. Fireworks often start popping a few days before and last several days after New Year’s Eve.
It is best to adjust the regular routine and use extra precautions for the days leading up to and following a fireworks holiday. Double leash the dogs for a walk. Use a harness for extra security. Walk into the yard with the pets, even if the yard is secure.
If a dog is nervous, it will likely avoid going outside once the festivities have started, so make sure all potty breaks are taken before the action begins.
4. IDENTIFICATION IS A MUST: Make sure pets are always wearing collars and ID tags with up-to-date information. This is a good time to get pets microchipped and registered with your current contact information. My 16-year-old dog, Stewie, also wears an air tag for an extra level of security since he is deaf and losing his eyesight. He can still run like a champ.
5. CHECK THE YARD: After the celebrations have come to an end, check the yard for firework debris so pets do not ingest anything they aren’t supposed to.
6. TALK TO YOUR VET: In severe cases of pet anxiety, seek advice from a veterinarian for the best plan of action. The last thing anyone wants is for a dog in distress to be roaming the streets.
Let’s start 2024 with all the pets safe at home and accounted for!