Dog Fireworks Anxiety: How to Help Your Dog Feel Calmer This Fourth of July
Anna Delabar, DVM, MS, Resident, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
One of the most common things I hear from pet owners this time of year is "My dog is terrified of fireworks." The good news is that many pets can become significantly more comfortable with the right combination of medication, management, and behavioral support.
Some dogs tremble and hide. Others pace, pant, bark, or refuse to go outside. For families living with a dog who struggles during fireworks season, what should be a fun holiday can quickly become stressful for everyone.
For some dogs, fireworks can have serious consequences beyond a few hours of anxiety. Every year, animal shelters see a surge in lost dogs following Fourth of July celebrations. In fact, July 5 has consistently been one of the busiest days of the year for stray dog intake nationwide. Many of these dogs are frightened by fireworks and panic when trying to escape the noise.
Common signs of stress include:
Hiding
Trembling or shaking
Panting
Pacing or inability to settle
Salivating or drooling
Barking or vocalizing
Not wanting to go outside
In a more panicked state, pets may injure themselves trying to escape a certain area. Others may become trapped in a hiding place and be unable to come out from under the bed, behind the toilet, or from wherever they have decided is safest.
Prepare in advance. Creating a plan before fireworks season arrives can help pets feel safer and more comfortable, making them less likely to panic or run away if fireworks occur unexpectedly.
Make sure your dog has up-to-date identification tags with the correct contact information attached to their harness or collar. If they have a microchip, make sure the contact information registered with the company is accurate.
We recommend a secure harness to reduce the chances of a runaway. When going outside, consider using two leashes: one attached to a harness and one attached to a collar, just in case. Avoid taking your dog outside during peak firework times. Keep walks brief and return inside after your dog eliminates rather than taking a more leisurely walk. Food puzzles or fun indoor training activities can help keep your dog busy. During peak firework times, plan to remain in a basement or a more interior room with your dog. The TV, music, or a noise machine can help buffer the sounds of fireworks.
These strategies can be helpful, but many pets experience more significant fear and anxiety during fireworks season and benefit from medication as part of their treatment plan.
If you feel your pet experiences high stress and anxiety due to fireworks, schedule an appointment before the holiday to discuss medication options and strategies to help everyone feel more comfortable throughout the summer. The best time to make a plan is before the first boom. Waiting until your dog is already in distress can limit treatment options and create additional stress for both you and your pet.
Some pets have sensitivity or fear of fireworks alone. For others, fireworks may be one piece of a larger behavioral picture. Dogs who fear fireworks commonly struggle with thunderstorms or sensitivity to other environmental noises. There is also an association between noise sensitivity and separation anxiety. Firework, storm, or noise sensitivity that develops later in life or suddenly worsens may also be associated with underlying discomfort or pain. Depending on your pet's history, a behavior consultation may be recommended to better understand the factors contributing to their fear and guide treatment recommendations.
Please reach out if you would like to schedule an exam or a behavior consultation.