Community Corner

Keeping Pets Calm, Safe During Fireworks

Written by Adina Genn

A fireworks extravaganza is a rite of summer, especially during a long July 4 weekend. But for pets? Not so much. Those loud booms and colorful explosions in the night sky can be downright frightening, particularly for dogs with their sensitive hearing.

North Shore Animal League America in Port Washington offers these safety tips.

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  • Don’t bring pets to the fireworks. They may try to get as far away from the noise and bright lights, and wind up lost.
  • Provide a calm indoor environment for them. A blanketed crate, for example, may be the perfect setting to escape all the hoopla. If the fireworks are visible from your windows, pull down the shades and close the curtains to block out those bright lights. Programs on TV or radio set on a low volume can offer comforting diversions.
  • Ask your vet for recommendations on keeping pets calm.
  • Provide a safe setting. Panicky pets can cause damage, especially when left alone. NSALA recommends removing “anything he may ingest or hurt himself on if he becomes frantic or nervous.” If possible, see if you can find someone to stay with your pet.
  • Secure windows and doors so frightened pets don't try to escape and become lost.
  • Distractions work, so keep your pets go-to toys and snacks on-hand. Extra hugs may be less effective for pets who may suspect something is wrong.
  • Attach an ID tag to your pets. That way, if they get away, you’ll be better able to find them. Collars should be secure so that pets can’t slip out of them.
  • Steer clear of post-holiday fireworks debris. NSALA point out that pets may want to investigate them, or even think they have found food, and wind up injured. 


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